Being calm and practicing calming activities is challenging at this time of year. Slow, deep breathing lowers blood pressure and heart rate. So does meditation. Believe it or not singing and humming can be calming too. Use what we do in yoga class when you are feeling anxious (ex. standing in a long, slow line). Stand in Mountain Pose, it is easier on your body; pay attention to your breath and deepen it; stretch; and think about something nice (for me that's my grandchildren). Enjoy the Holidays!
Remember Ahimsa. Ahimsa is part of the yogic philosophy, the Eight Fold Path. It means non-harming and non-violence. It is a personal ethic that is important to good health and a good life. It begins with you first. Yes, sometimes this is difficult. We want to help others first, putting our own needs aside. The truth is you can do that better if you feel good. Setting personal boundaries is one way to practice Ahimsa. Rest when you are tired. Make holiday projects doable and fun. Create a team of helpers. Learn to say “no” when necessary. Smile a lot and enjoy the season!
Calming Activities
Remember Ahimsa. Ahimsa is part of the yogic philosophy, the Eight Fold Path. It means non-harming and non-violence. It is a personal ethic that is important to good health and a good life. It begins with you first. Yes, sometimes this is difficult. We want to help others first, putting our own needs aside. The truth is you can do that better if you feel good. Setting personal boundaries is one way to practice Ahimsa. Rest when you are tired. Make holiday projects doable and fun. Create a team of helpers. Learn to say “no” when necessary. Smile a lot and enjoy the season!
Calming Activities
- Snuggle up in a cozy place
- Take a walk
- Give yourself (or someone else) a hug
- Read a book
- Smile about something
- Look at the positive side of things
- Take a warm shower
- Meditate
- Breathe deeply
- Practice Restorative Yoga