When I work with clients and write my weekly Thrival Kit message, there’s a lot of focus on output – actions and deliverables that can visibly help folks move forward with their EXIT Strategies. However, just as important – and sometimes more important – is input. Taking time to feed and rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit is essential to living a healthy life and making progress with our EXIT Strategy goals. Here are 6 ways to do just that …
1) Breathe Deep
If meditation feels like too much of a stretch goal and something you wouldn’t commit to, take 5 minutes for deep breathing. Turn off all the electronics, sit quietly at home or outdoors, close your eyes, and focus on inhaling and exhaling your breath. Rest your hand on your stomach and feel your stomach contract and expand as you breathe. If your thoughts wander, refocus on your breathing. This simple 5-minute exercise is amazing! I urge you to try it! You’ll be amazed at how this seemingly minor technique can relax and calm the body and mind to relieve stress and allow for creative, energized juices to return.
2) Meditate
I talk a fair amount about meditation because I’m such a believer in its benefits with the mind, body and spirit. Deepak Chopra is one of my favorite resources for learning more about meditation and its benefits and accessing free or low-cost guided meditations. It rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit and can be done in just 5 to 20 minutes a day. The more you meditate, the easier it is to do. It’s like strengthening the mind muscle. You can learn more about it here: http://www.chopra.com/ccl
3) Stop In Your Favorite Store
I love paper. I like new legal pads and new magazines. I like stationary stores where they have pretty wrapping paper and cards. I think that may make me a paper geek, and I’m okay with that. I find pleasure in going into a paper store and looking at all the lovely pieces and maybe purchasing a card or two. It brightens my day. So, what’s that place for you? A guitar store? Electronics store? (Careful of the shoe stores ladies.) You don’t have to spend much or any money. Simply ask yourself what type of store helps you feel light-hearted and gets your creative juices flowing? Take time to stop in that store and enjoy the moment!
4) Connect with Nature
Take a hike outside and focus on being in the present moment. Sit by a stream, listen to the running water, and consider all the fabulous things in your life. Listen to the crackle of a campfire and feel the breeze of the wind on a fall night. Swing on a swing at the park. (I did that recently.) Spending time outdoors can shift our perspective and reenergize us. This recommendation is one of my favorites!
5) Treat Yourself on Occasion
Treat yourself to something special on occasion. For some of you, it may be carving out time to be by yourself. For others it may be a manicure, a few hours at the beach, drinks with friends, or a massage. Figure out what that special something is for you and take time for that on a monthly or quarterly basis.
6) Absorb Positive Energy & Resources from Others
Subscribing to a daily inspirational message can help kick off or wrap up a day with positive energy. thedailylove.com is a great site. You can also go to the App Store on your phone and search for daily inspirational quotes; there are a lot of free options. Attending a local event or listening to a podcast or online video are also great options to connect with your interests and learn more. Search online for readings, talks and concerts for those topics that help feed your mind, body and spirit.
Take action on one of these and you’ll remember why it’s so important to focus on what energizes you from the inside out. Please share one of your favorite ways to rejuvenate your mind, body or spirit below:
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