When it comes to health, wellness, mental peace, and happiness, I want to do whatever it takes to naturally get there. We are living in a busy world, and it is constantly getting busier with people more connected to their electronics than ever before. We are always “on” 24/7.
The key to finding balance in today’s fast-paced society is ensuring we give ourselves the time and space required to re-align with our inner-self. Below are some mindfulness practices to integrate into your self-care regimes.
- Daily affirmations: I like to read or listen to affirmations twice a day, once in the morning and in the evening. Affirmations do not need to be lengthy, they can be short and simple words to guide you throughout your day. I favor affirmations found on YouTube by repeating the words aloud to help perpetuate the effectiveness of the message. This practice re-centers my emotions, energy, and overall sense of calm.
- Meditation: I cater to guided meditations as it helps keep my brain in check, and with my time limitations, five-to-ten-minute meditations work best. Meditation or mental stillness is the best medicine for the soul as it encourages our psyche to chill out and breathe.
- Gratitude: This practice can be done during meditation, an affirmation, or individually on its own. Expressing gratitude at the onset and conclusion of the day is a great practice as it encourages you to feel grateful for the little things that we often take for granted.
- Journaling: Writing your thoughts down is one of the healthiest habits one can get into. This allows your brain to detox from information overload, while also offering a safe place for you to mentally rewind and connect with your inner-self.
- Tarot and Oracle Cards: This step commingles with daily journaling by adding a spiritual element to the journal practice. From a tarot or oracle card deck, select a card upside down at random. Once you read the card, reflect on the message written and use it as your guide throughout the new day. I like to keep the card on my bedside table so that I can constantly see it and reflect on the message. If you have an office, bring the card to your desk.
Explore each of the said practices, and start slowly with a new mindfulness method each week, and gradually progress to your desire. You have nothing to lose, rather you will gain additional strength, joy, and peace.