Ten Things

10 Things To Do Right Now To Promote Healing

Have you been outside in the past 12-24 hours? Get some fresh air and take a walk, even if it’s just down the street and back. Can’t walk right now? Get on your back porch and sit for a while.
Practice a brief mindfulness session by paying attention to your breath, and nothing else. Be comfortable. Take in a deep breath through your nose and let your belly expand. (Think of a barrel) Then slowly and purposefully exhale out your mouth with a pursed-lip position, such as when whistling or blowing out a birthday candle, but slowly and controlled. Thoughts will try to come into your mind, and this is normal. Don’t be upset at yourself, just acknowledge the thoughts, and continue. Can you do this for 4 minutes? It’s amazing how effective this can be.
Music is powerful. Create a playlist of happy or inspiring music and listen to it! Better yet, get up and dance to it!I
Maybe you just need to talk. Call a good friend who always has your back, or better yet, plan to meet up with them at a coffee shop.
If someone isn’t available to talk, the next best thing is writing things down in a journal. Set a timer for 5 minutes (or don’t!) and write everything that comes to mind.
Nurture and treat yourself. Whether it’s indulging in some favorite chocolate, taking a bubble bath, or just wearing soft, comfy clothes, you could use some love right now!
Go drink some water. It’s astonishing how many of us are dehydrated on a daily basis! Water will help you combat fatigue and refresh yourself.
Read! Whether it’s a book, a magazine, or poetry, reading will take your mind to a different place and help get those creative juices flowing.
Go through old pictures from good times in your life. Try to remember every little detail from that time and consider writing it down. Relish in the memories! Sorting through old photos can usually put a smile on my face.
Hug someone. (I am definitely a hugger.) Hugs are such an easy way to express love and care without having to say a word. And the benefits to you are undeniable. Hugging increases oxytocin and other neurotransmitters associated with happiness and pleasure, while decreasing stress hormones, blood pressure and heart rate. In short, hugs feel good!!