Monday, May 17

Today is Monday, May 17, 2021. Totally energized for the morning walk, rain or shine. Ready to start.

During the month of May, we are focusing on routines.  Routines can anchor us, decrease stress, foster creativity, prioritize self-care, and allow time to pursue our passions!  This week we look at routines to boost you during your active hours, when you are working or studying or practicing.

To thrive, it helps to build regular moments for a quick recharge. 

• • When you reach out to open a door, take a deep belly breath in. When you open the door, breathe out and release your shoulders.
  • As you wash your hands, take a moment to massage your hands making sure to knead your palms and fingers too.
  • In between activities, look at your favorite photo(s) of loved ones.
  • Listen to music that gives you a boost or helps you concentrate or that calms you whenever you can.
  • At various moments when you want to reset your mind, re-read the Daily Gift of Vitality and keep it close for easy access. =)

Photos by: Kevin Leavesley, “Lucy”

Recharge yourself and share positive energy when you repeat: 

“I am [*Name*].  I am open to the positive energy around me. I appreciate myself and others as I connect with love and kindness. As I think about those I love and care for, I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

A quote by Rumi, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.”

Use this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind:  

• 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.
• Cross your arms across your chest, hands on opposite shoulders, giving yourself a big hug.
• While still holding your shoulders, bring your chin to your chest and let gravity pull down on your elbows and release the back of your shoulders into a gentle stretch.
• Release your arms, uncurl, roll your shoulders back, open your palms out. Bring your chin up and smile.

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP