LOSE THE GUILT. YOU DESERVE 10 MINS TO YOURSELF!

How is it that setting alarms, using checklists, prepping ahead of time all sound like ideal solutions and somehow things still fall through the cracks? What happens when there aren’t enough minutes in the day? Life moves fast and as we try to keep up with it so does our stress.

The solution? Take 10 minutes to slow down!

I know what you’re thinking. How can I take 10 more minutes out of my day to do nothing when I already don’t have any time?!

Slowing down can look different for everybody. It could be in any form of meditation, sitting still, washing the dishes in silence, slowly sipping on your morning coffee, taking a shower aware of all the sensations. The goal is to close off the world and tune in to your body’s sensations, thoughts, emotions and give yourself in that moment exactly what you need to execute your day.

Many demands of our day and the roles we play for those we love are stressful. We have learned that without pain there's no gain and we only sleep when we die. This fast-paced mindset puts our body into overdrive. Learning to slow down allows you the space to connect with yourself first. It gives you the opportunity to be mindful of how you want to show up in your day. Long deep breaths decrease stress and increase calmness while stimulating your lymphatic system, detoxifying your body.

Ok! All this sounds great, but how do you get started? Try this. It’s called Boxed breathing, a technique used in yoga and meditation to slow down your breathing. 

Step 1: Breathe in, counting to four slowly. Feel the air enter your lungs.

Step 2: Hold your breath for 4 seconds. Try to avoid inhaling or exhaling for 4 seconds.

Step 3: Slowly exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.

Step 4: Repeat steps 1 to 3 until you feel re-centered.

Repeat this exercise as many times as you can. Thirty seconds of deep breathing will help you feel more relaxed and in control.