Today is Wednesday, August 25, 2021. Here, in the North, appreciating the nourishment from the summer harvest.
This August, the focus has been on building and strengthening connections to lower stress and contribute to longevity.
For this last week of August, we focus on connecting to Nature. Being in nature can awaken happiness and peace. Being in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce stress.
Today, let’s explore ways to connect to nature at home and work.
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- Place a plant on your desk, by your entryway, or in the home.
- Eat lunch outside and feel the breeze, listen to the birds, feel the sunshine.
- Place beautiful pictures of nature on the walls or on your desk.
- Play sounds of nature—the ocean, birds, rain, flowing stream.
- Place your fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruit where you can easily see them.
- Create a salad with multiple different colors of fresh ingredients.
- Leave flowers or a plant for someone else to enjoy.
- Invite a friend for a picnic.
Photo by: Karim Sakhibgareev
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 from William Shakespeare, “The earth has music for those who listen.”
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.
- Exhale out the past as you hum “om”.
- Inhale in the future and feel your body refresh.
- Repeat 3 times and smile.
With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,
Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP
Daily Gift of Vitality 