Self-Care Pointers

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We all have neglected our own self-care at one time or another or even maybe most of the time.

We get so busy taking care of everyone else, our jobs, families, and our homes. Life gets crazy sometimes if you allow it. It especially gets out of sorts if you are also battling other life changes as well.

I have posted below a few pointers to help relieve some stress in your life and find a balance in mind, body, and spirit. Always take time for you. Create a daily routine that becomes a habit for you to get some you time daily.

Here is a breathing technique which is very helpful for relieving stress in the body and mind.

How to breathe

Exhale completely through your mouth, making sure to breathe out completely. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four. Hold your breath for a count of eight. Exhale completely through your mouth, making sure to breathe out completely to a count of eight. Concentrate on only your breathing while doing this exercise. Try to let go of other thoughts that may be spinning around in your brain. You can do this several times a day and from wherever you are and can be five or ten minutes or as long as you want.

If you are new to meditation and want to meditate below is a basic process.

How to Meditate

To begin the practice of mindful meditation, find a quiet place free of distractions. Set a timer for five minutes or ten minutes or however long you would like to start with and sit comfortably on the floor or in a chair. Then close your eyes and connect with your breath by focusing on your breathing without trying to direct it. Your breath is your anchor to the present moment. When your mind wanders off in thought just bring focus back to your breath.

Here is a great suggestion I found online to help to keep the mind from wondering.

To help, the Zen Mountain Monastery suggests that beginners count their breaths. Count one breath in, one breath out, and continue through 10 breaths, then return to one again. This process helps connect your mind to your breath, especially when thoughts can sometimes break your concentration. Every time your thoughts wander, start back at one. Eventually, you’ll be able to just follow your breath without counting. There are many forms of meditation. The meditation above is a mindful meditation practice. You will find what works for you.