Happy Spring! The season of new life is upon us and as the flowers blossom, the grass turns green, and the birds start chirping, I find myself ready to embrace nature’s abundant energy and spirit of rejuvenation.
My intentions, however, are often thwarted by another thing that comes along with Spring – the beginning of calendar chaos!
From events with family and friends, to business travel, to juggling the extra-curricular activities of two very busy adolescent girls, my Spring Zen doesn’t stick around for long.
I try my best to savor little moments of tranquility when I’m able, and to carry the feelings of calm and refreshment that they bring me throughout my day.
Here are a few of my favorite, sneaky ways to squeeze in a few more moments of relaxation each and every day:
- Make the bed. Making the bed helps set a positive tone for the day and gives me a little morning quiet-time to reflect and relax before jumping into the hustle and bustle. This simple habit makes me feel like I’m starting the day off neat, tidy, and prepared (even if my to-do list is a mile long and there’s unfolded laundry piling up in the corner).
- Take a walk around the block after lunch. A 5-minute afternoon stroll can be as revitalizing as a cup of coffee (and it’s a lot better for you!). While you’re walking, try to quiet your mind by thinking about one thing that you were proud to accomplish so far in the day. Focusing on this positive energy you feel much more relaxed as you tackle the afternoon.
- Meditate! This one really shouldn’t surprise you as one of my favorite ways to grab a few moments of peace?. Sit in your favorite comfy chair, put on some relaxing music or your favorite Circle + Bloom program and close your eyes. Focus on your breathing and let the music or words wash over you. Embrace relaxation as your only task.
- Write in a journal. Journaling can feel a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. More than trying to feel that you need to do a long and involved journal entry, just try to take 5 minutes a day and make it a habit. When you sit down to write, ask yourself a simple question – “How am I feeling today?” – and then set a timer for 5 minutes, and start writing! Be truthful, brutal, honest and open.
- Unplug. I mean it – no cell phones, no computers, no TV. Period. Numerous studies have shown the impact of screen time on the brain, and I’d argue that periods of NON-screen time are just as impactful. Instead of scanning your phone at night to “wind down,” adopt screen-free hobbies like reading, coloring, playing cards, or gardening. Even if you only have a few minutes, activities like these help us relax by tuning out all the noise and letting your brain focus gently on the what’s in front of you.
How do you sneak moments of Zen into your day? I’d love to hear from you.
With love + gratitude ~
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