Have you ever heard the saying “slow down and smell the roses”? Have you ever had a friend or loved one tell you that you need to take some “you” time to relax a little bit? If you answered “yes”, you are like most Americans these days. We are constantly running around, going from place to place, scheduling our days full of events and errands but rarely do we take time for us. Taking time for yourself is one of the most important “things” you can do in life! It will help you regain focus on what is important, it will help you relieve stress and it will help contribute to you becoming more efficient.
Here are a few ways that you can slow down to take time for you!
Go for a walk. Being outdoors when the weather is nice (especially this time of the year) is one of the best things you can do for your mind, body and spirit. Plan to go out for at least 10-15 minutes. Leave your cell phone behind and take a moment to walk and to take a few deep breaths of the air. Enjoy the nature around you.
Do some deep breathing techniques. Sit in a chair with your feet shoulder width a part. Put your hands palms down on your knee caps. Sit up with your head facing forward and close your eyes. Take deep, slow breaths breathing in for 10 seconds and breathing out for 10 seconds. When you breathe out, try to exhale any stress or pressure that you are dealing with in life. After 3-4 rounds of deep breaths, open your eyes and take a moment. You should feel better!
Make a list of everything that you love. From Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes to warm sunny days, make a list of everything that comes to mind. Try not to stop for several minutes. When the time is up, look at your list and admire all that you have to be thankful for.
Ask a friend to get together. Go for lunch or for coffee. While you are there, keep your cell phone away and enjoy connecting with another person face to face. Talk about old times and talk about new times.
There are so many things that you can do in order to slow down in life and to consciously pause before taking a step further. The trick is to remind yourself to actually take the time!
If you would like to talk further about how to pause in life and how to make sure you are living your healthiest life, contact us today.
At Carlos and Parnell, M.D., P.A. our professional and caring staff makes the difference with patient care. – See more at: http://www.dev.carlosparnellmd.com/thermometers-and-babies/#sthash.MFvVROkI.dpuf
