Thursday, August 6

Today is Thursday, August 6, 2020. Water can be so refreshing in the summer.

After Friday, August 7th, the Daily Gifts of Vitality will only be released 3 times per week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, to allow additional days to consider the prompts before advancing.  

Inspiration: A Quote from Lailah Gifty Akita

“Rest is necessary for reflection.”

Photo by Max Lederer

We invite you to experience the Joy of Reflective Journaling. This week includes deliberate practices to nurture our connections to the world around us. Consider writing down your reflections.

Reflective Journaling Prompt: What about your body, are you grateful for? Think about all the ways your body has supported you and write it down. Consider how you care for your body in return.

Recharge yourself when you repeat:    

“I am [*Name*]. I am resilient and learning every day. I am a part of the global community. I love myself because I have kindness and love in my heart and soul. As I think about those I love and care for, I send loving kindness out to all people.”

The Mindfulness Activity to practice this week to create Calm Moments:  

• Straighten your spine. Roll your shoulders back and down, smile to yourself, & relax your jaw.
• Take slow deep belly breaths, allowing your stomach to rise with each breath in and relax with each breath out. You may find that each breath gets better and better. Allow your shoulders to relax on each exhale.
• Choose a centering word that is neutral to you and simple. You might choose “now” or “one” or “peace.”

1. As you exhale, say your chosen word. Focus on the vibration of the word as you hear it. Repeat.
2. As you exhale and say your word, imagine dropping a smooth pebble in clear water and watch it gently settle gently on the bottom, relaxed and comfortable.
3. Finally, as you continue your deep belly breaths, notice the ripples on the water are gently gliding out. Repeat your word on every exhale until the ripples have settled.

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,  

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP