A Fresh Start
Do you know people who seem to be calm all the time? They seem to know exactly what to say and they never lose their cool. I would love to say that I am one of those people and I will help you become that person. But the truth is, I’m not. I was tempted to write that in capital letters because I am truly not. I lose full days. I have my plans for the days and suddenly it’s 5 pm and only half is done. I create schedules for the week, which include time for myself to relax, but oops I get a call from a relative or a client in crisis and BAM! It’s the weekend and I’m still working to catch up.
As I write this blog, we are just beginning the month of March and I think I have finally realized what my resolution is for 2017. I will find my way to that Zen state. And as a bonus, I will write about my journey here so that you can join me along the way. I also invite your comments, suggestions and your stories.
A Wellness Inventory
I have recently created what is called a Wellness Inventory, which starts with a survey that takes about half an hour to complete (click here to find out more). From there, a profile is created for you and this profile can be used as a tool to track and guide you through a “wellness” journey. I will likely refer to this often – that is if I can manage to find the time to use it.
Baby Steps
I was asked to create a goal. Well truth be told I was asked to create several goals, but I figured I’d better start with one and I was right! My first goal was to find at least 20 minutes a day to stop and practice some deep breathing exercises. It turns out – I get bored. I took about five breathes and starting to think about anything but breathing. I realized something, in order for the deep breathing to stick I needed to keep my brain busy. Instead of just breathing, I started to breathe and doodle. I created simple little doodles that made no sense. I tricked my brain by keeping my hands busy, while I concentrated on my breathing.
Week 1
Here’s a recap of week one. I’ve managed to practice the doodle breathes a total of twice this week. But I also found some time to walk and breathe, so I figure that counts too. That gives me 3 days out of 7 that I practiced concentrated breathing. This is not a math blog, but I’d say that’s a rough start. The good news is that the deep breathing really did help. So how do I do this more often? (Feel free to answer this…please…no really please)
Week 2
So going into week two. Should I create a second goal and try to accomplish both? Nope.
I think it’s best to stick to my first goal, and attempt to add more days of deep breathing. If I can say I’ve found a way to concentrate on my breathing for 4 out of 7 days, this will be a success. In the meantime, I will note how I was able to adjust my time. For instance, I find myself practicing my deep breathing as I write this.
I’ll keep you posted on my successes and how I’ve accomplished them. I would love to share your comments and suggestions as well.
Here are a few articles I found that might help.
http://www.innerhealthstudio.com/too-busy-to-relax.html
https://hbr.org/2012/10/if-youre-too-busy-to-meditate.html
https://hbr.org/2014/03/mindfulness-for-people-who-are-too-busy-to-meditate
