When I was a little kid I was carefree about everything. I’m sure you were as well. Most kids are. As we become adults with responsibilities, jobs, taxes, Trump as the president..things can get stressful…
Although it’s important to actually care about things in your life like work and responsibilities it’s also important to relax, live a little and put yourself first. You are the source. You are the compass. You must take care of yourself first and then everything else will fall into place. I have found 4 things that help me to feel less stressed and provide an overall happier and healthier me. I hope they help you as well.
1. WORKING OUT
This doesn’t have to be pumping iron at the gym or an intense Cross Fit program. Any type of physical activity 3-4 days a week works out great. Even if you just go on a long walk in the morning, during your lunch break or after dinner, you will notice you will feel more relaxed.
When I miss out on physical fitness not only does it take a toll on my body but also my mind. When I’m busy I will just grab my dog, Winnie and go on a long power walk in nature. It makes us both happy! Even if you only have 15 minutes to spare, you can always find a workout video on YouTube to do at home. Also I would highly recommend Orange Theory if you like HIIT workouts and Yoga if you are looking for not just physical benefits but also mental.
2. COOK MEALS AT HOME
Cooking was never something I enjoyed in high school and college. After college, I moved to Copenhagen, Denmark where I couldn’t land a job due to being a foreigner ( tough crowd those Danes!) and found myself using the extra time to cook and paint.
I quickly found out cooking is extremely therapeutic. Not only is it therapeutic for my mind, but my body toned up and dropped a few pounds as well.
I now cook quite a bit at home and love to do so. I use coconut oil or olive oil, I make lots of chicken breast, fish, veggies, rice and quinoa and go light on the salt. I have about 4-5 go-to meals that I make all the time when I am in a rush.
3. CONNECT WITH NATURE
It’s so easy to get caught up in the daily routine with waking up, going to work, going to happy hour and going home. Where’s the time for nature? You have to make time for it. Even if it’s just 30 minutes. You deserve it. I make sure to get into nature as often as possible.
If you live in a city that’s lacking nature try to find a park or relax on a balcony or outdoor space at your home. Read a book, meditate or do some yoga by the trees.
4. MEDITATION
Meditation. Wow. Where to start. I have heard people for years talking about how amazing it is. I didn’t get it. Why would sitting in silence make me so zen? Well, try it. It works. It has made me feel so much more peaceful and it actually lets me stop and think before speaking ( which doesn’t usually come easily for me.) There are plenty of guided meditation apps. Here is one of my favorites. Also you can just sit in silence and set an alarm. If you are new to this try just 5 minutes. Keep adding a few minutes each time.
5. ENERGY HEALING
Energy Healing is a form of healing that manipulates, restores or balances the flow of energy in the body. The energy is channeled through the practitioner to the client, helping remove energy deficiencies and blockages, which then activates the body’s own natural ability to heal itself. There are many forms of energy healing but my favorite energy healer is in Austin, TX. After I did an energy healing session with him I felt so refreshed, balanced, zen and positive. It was like I had been at a spa for a week. If you’re in Austin, TX I would highly recommend him. His name is Daniel. You can make an appointment HERE! If you go to him tell him I sent you and you will get $10 off. So only $40 for the session which is a lot cheaper than a massage and it’s so healing. You will love it!
It all comes down to what works best for you and what makes you feel happy and healthy. I hope these tips helped you out in some way. I really do believe not only our physical health but also our mental health are tied into what we put into our bodies and how we spend our days.
What are you struggling with that makes you feel anxious, sleepy or just blah? What are you planning to do to fix it? I would love to hear in the comments below.
With love,
Scarlett
