Aug/Sep 2020 Aspire Magazine FULL Issue Aug/Sep 2020 Aspire Magazine FULL Issue | Page 42

later in the day or tomorrow and try again.
The idea is to give yourself permission to
experience the positive impact five minutes
of focused nurturing can have in your day.
HERE ARE SOME SELF-
NURTURING PRACTICES
THAT YOU CAN ENGAGE
IN FOR FIVE MINUTES TO
CHANGE YOUR DAY:
1.
2.
3.
Connect to Your Breath.
Even ten intentional breaths in and
out can change your brain, bring
you to the present moment, ground
you, calm your nervous system, and
connect you to your body.
Go Outside.
If you have been in your home for
an extended period of time, going
outside can be refreshing, provide
a new perspective and break, and
allow you to focus on the clouds,
nature, other people, and life outside
your home. It may also give you an
opportunity to connect with your
neighbors.
Take a Walk or Exercise.
Even five minutes of moving your
body can be nurturing to your health
and well-being. Try jumping jacks, a
few yoga postures, or walking around
the block.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Pet Your Animal.
It is amazing how nurturing it can be
to cuddle your pet or beloved animal.
Research shows that petting animals
decreases stress and increase
overall sense of calm and happiness.
Aromatherapy.
Using essential oils can transform
your mood and add to your overall
sense of well-being. You can use
uplifting oils, like sweet orange or
tangerine in your diffuser or add
essential oils to your lotion in the
morning to energize or calm you
depending on the oil.
Play a Game.
This is a favorite option in our home as
my husband is a board game maker
and we play games throughout the
day. We tested if it was possible to
play a game in 5 minutes and indeed
it is - just choose the game wisely!
Listen to Music.
Choose one or two of your favorite
songs to listen to and if you feel
inspired dance your heart out.
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www.AspireMAG.net | August / September 2020