Day: November 23, 2020

Monday, November 23

Today is Monday, November 23, 2020. Along the morning walk, the quiet of the night still lingers. The ducks are taking it easy today.

November is for nesting, nourishing, and nurturing. While the winter approaches in the northern hemisphere, nature reminds us to slow down and recharge in more quiet ways.

We continue to explore nourishing activities for your mind and body with our series of prompts to create your personal list of activities that shift your energy and are relaxing or calming for you.

As we begin this week, we focus on a list of ways to refresh the mind. Organize the list in order of easiest to incorporate or shortest amount of time to longest amount of time required. That way, when you need a quick reset, the items you see first can be implemented with the most ease.

    1. Journal.
    2. Read an inspiring blog or book of poetry.
    3. Listen to an uplifting podcast or audiobook.
    4. Listen to soothing music or music without words like classical, jazz, new age, ensembles or drums.
    5. Sing your favorite songs with emotion.

An inspirational quote by Toni Morris, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”

Photo by: Sharon McCutcheon

Recharge yourself when you repeat:    

“I am [*Name*]. I am human. My mind, my body, and my spirit are connected, and I am a part of a global community. I love myself and others 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 and compassion to all people. We are all human. We can create positive energy together.”

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.
    • Repeat to yourself, “I can have a moment to be calm. I can have a moment of peace.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP