“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”―Alan Wilson Watts
At a time when your world seems everything but normal, work towards accepting that every change is a form of growth. Below are some of my favourite ways to calm down and feel grounded back to earth.
1. Focus Meditation
I know what you're probably thinking and honestly I used to think it was stupid too, but don't knock something until you've really tried it. There's hundreds of different ways you can meditate, so find a way that suits you. Focus on your breathing, your thoughts and feelings in a quiet space for as long as you see necessary. My favourite free app for helping me do this is Insight Timer. There's thousands of different guided talks, music and affirmations you can listen through at your own pace which I find to be the best way to start off your day. Have you ever had something go wrong first thing in the morning then suddenly every single thing you try and do just doesn't go your way? 'One of them days'? Yes and its usually because you're already stressed and agitated about what's already happened and continue to make mistakes as you go. We all know similar wavelengths attract so if you start off your day filled with positivity you can continue to tune into the good stuff all day!
2. Facial Massage
Self massage can be just as effective as going to the massage parlour! It has been proven to reduce stress, release toxins from the body and even drain your lymphatic system. The lymph system makes up part of our body's immunity and helps fight off infection. Lymph transports the nutrients and oxygen to cells whilst collecting toxins on the way then flushing them out through your lymph nodes. This massage can help improve the flow of lymph and therefore its effectiveness... so don't underestimate it!
I like to use plenty of cream or oil applied over the face and work in slow, long and gentle movements. Work through each area of the face in the directions pictured using your finger tips or knuckles, I love to finish off with a face mask straight after. To see my massage techniques, click on the video below and give it a go for yourself!
3. Reading / Podcasts
It doesn't need to be the whole thing, set yourself aside some time and read a few pages of a new book. This will help to keep your mind and body busy. If you struggle to focus then read slower, really think about the words that you are reading and try and picture what's going on inside your head. I strongly advise a positive read for this one, after all, you are what you surround yourself with. If you are constantly watching, reading and listening to the negatives in life then expect yourself to turn into
one of those very negatives. Books on business and motivation are my personal fave but have a look around and see what interests you. Often books will have free mini versions for you to get an idea online of what its all about then you can take it from there. If you're not able to sit down and read a book an audiobook or podcast can be a brilliant way to still take in new information. Play it in the background while you're getting on with your every day life letting it sink in as you go. Again there's plenty of free apps but my favourite for podcasts is Spotify and I've been obsessed with 'The Mindset Mentor- Rob Dial'. I just find him really easy to listen to, he speaks such sense and has even had some really resonating chats about the current Corona Pandemic (sorry for even using the word!). To reiterate, we are a product of what we surround ourselves with so consider switching out some sad or gossiping TV for something that is going to help you grow into a better version of you.
4. SHAVE THOSE LEGS
Now I don't necessarily mean this literally, but maybe for some. It's time to do that thing for yourself that you've kinda been ignoring for a while. The thing that you push to the back of your mind and forget about when it comes to taking care of you. It might mean brushing your hair, painting your nails or taking a bath... whatever it means for you go do it, now! Taking care of yourself should always be in your top priorities. So even when you've got no where to go, give yourself a little pamper and I promise you'll feel better than you did before.
5. Gratitude
Finally, focus on the positives. There are some in every situation, I promise you. So write them down, doesn't need to be many. A handful of things that you are grateful for today and slowly but surely you will come to realise not everything is as bad as it may first seem.
Sending love and positivity to you all at this time,
By Katie Louise
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