“ At its heart , clutter is a lack of peace .”
– KATHI LIPP
and fuels our resistance to taking time to nurture ourselves and just be . The more we give to everyone except ourselves , the more resentful , burned out , and depressed we feel . This is an exhausting and unsustainable way to live that results in feeling stuck , hopeless , and unfulfilled .
But there is another , more spacious way to live that is filled with peace , joy and meaning . Since you are the artist of your own life , you can choose to cultivate space in your day to just be . In time this sense of spaciousness will transform your internal and external clutter into more peace and ease . Intentionally creating space to just be will support you in nurturing a relationship with yourself where you will be able to listen to your needs and feelings throughout the day and take inspired nurturing action . And you can begin by including the following five minute self-nurturing practices into your day to experience moments of spaciousness that will create ripples of positivity in your life including more self-awareness , selfcompassion , and self-love .
Give Yourself Permission To Do Nothing
Put on a timer for five minutes and give yourself permission to do nothing . Notice what feelings and thoughts arise and with kindness and compassion remind yourself that by doing nothing you are supporting your health and well-being . Giving yourself permission is an empowering practice that reinforces that you are valuable and worthy and reminds you that you are in charge of your choices . Giving yourself permission helps you prioritize what is important to you . If you find it encouraging , write yourself a permission slip to do nothing and post it where you will see it .
Notice Your Breath
Spend a few minutes connecting with your breath and notice the rising and falling of your chest with each in breath and out breath . With curiosity begin to notice the temperature change at the tip of your nose between your inhale to your exhale . Label your breaths or count each time you breathe in and out . Brain research shows that taking ten intentional breaths can change your neural pathways and help settle your nervous system . To support you in cultivating more space in your day to breath and be , place a reminder on your phone or simply pause and notice your breath before eating , answering a text or email , or transitioning between activities .
Practice Joy
What simple thing brings you joy ? Drinking a cup of tea or coffee , sitting in the sun , watching the clouds , petting your beloved animal , hugging a loved one , taking a walk , watching a sunset , appreciating something beautiful , or singing ? Make a commitment to include something simple that brings you joy in your day with the intention of just being while you are enjoying it . Bring your full attention to practicing joy and allow yourself
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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