I wanted to talk today about checking-in with ourselves and finding inner peace. To say that a lot has been going on this year would be a bit redundant at this point, and if you listen to the news it's easy to get discouraged, stressed and downright angry. Let's take a moment and talk about meditation and creating a healthy spirit and vibrant soul. With the majority of our focus being on staying healthy and safe, we have lost sight of what it means to live a fulfilled life. The focus has been on longevity rather than quality of life. In a desire to live to a ripe old age, we have separated ourselves from those things that are meant to give us meaning and fulfillment. We have used masks as a way to divide us as a community into two opposing teams: those who care and those who don't. Let's put that aside, and rather than focusing on the virus, let's take a moment to check-in on our mental and spiritual health.
Whether you are a religious person or not, it's important to pay attention to what is going on inside you; how you feel, what you want in life, what gives you a sense of meaning and purpose, and those in your life who bring you joy and happiness.
Some of the ways I check in with myself is by spending time in nature, walking on the beach and practicing yoga.
Getting away from the bustle of everyday life and spending time on a hike, listening to the breeze whistling through trees, feeling the sun on my face, taking in the scent of wildflowers and honey is a great way to distance myself from the things in life that I can't control and which are causing anxiety.
If you are unable to hike there are lots of ways you can refocus and de-stress at home. I like to put some essential oils in my diffuser, play soft music and get lost in my thoughts. Practicing mindfulness is a great way to check in and refocus.
What are some of the ways you check-in with yourself and refocus?
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TEN EASY WAYS TO DE-STRESS
1. Change your environment
2. Practice breathing exercises
3. Meditate
4. Pray
5. Do relaxation exercises
6. Do a physical activity
7. Practice a rhythmic activity
8. Be creative
9. Share your feelings
10. Focus on one of your senses