Tag: books

Friday, June 24

Today is Friday, June 24, 2022.  Children’s laughter delights. It’s time for fun!

A quote by Dr. Seuss, “Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”

Photo by Martin Hristov

Finding Joy in June.  As we start the second half of the year let’s focus on ways we can find joy.

Reading can provide a time for peace, quiet, adventure and exploration.

    • Try a new genre: fiction, non-fiction, historical, travel, mystery, humor, science fiction, romance
    • Read a book about a new hobby you would like to try
    • Read a book about a hero who inspires you
    • Read a book about a dream vacation

Use this Mindfulness Activity to Re-energize your Body and Mind whenever you need a moment to reset – while waiting, before, after, or to transition between activities:

    • 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 positive affirmations throughout your day, while smiling:
      • My mind is peaceful.
      • I choose to act and react peacefully.
      • I illuminate peace around me.

Recharge yourself and share positive energy when you repeat:  

“I am [*Name*]. I can do this. As I connect to my inner self, I am open to the Happiness and positive energy around me. I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me. Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

Monday, November 8

Today is Monday, November 8, 2021. Fresh air during the morning stroll, setting up for the week.

A quote from Charles W. Eliot, “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.”

Photo, “This morning,” by: Dan Deziel, MD

This November, it’s about novelty for personal growth and confidence, for opportunities to interact with new people, and for play.

Enjoy reading. Find a new book to dive into.

    • Reconnect with a library, in person or virtually. Explore a section to find an interesting new book to read.
    • Find a recommended reading list online or at a local bookstore and see if there’s one that interests you.
    • Consider starting a neighborhood or building lending library and exchange good books with neighbors.
    • Join or create a book club and discuss chosen readings with a group.
    • Keep a log of books you read with a one line summary and review what you are learning or engaged with over time.

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.   
  • Practice gently releasing the muscle tension in your neck.
      1. Gently roll your neck side to side, slowly. Repeat 3 times, each direction.
      2. Gently and slowly tilt your chin down and release your shoulders. Take 3 deep, slow breaths. Bring your chin to neutral.
      3. Roll your shoulders forwards and then backwards. Smile as you allow renewed energy.

Recharge yourself and share positive energy when you repeat:  

 “I am [*Name*].  I am open to the positive energy around me. As I connect to my courage, strength, and wisdom, I am open to new ideas and change.  I send loving kindness and compassion to all people including me.  Together, we can do great things.”

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP 

 

Friday, December 11

Today is Friday, December 11, 2020. Leading into the last 20 days of the year, it is a good time to reflect to close out this year stronger and wiser than when it started.

Delights in December. This month use the Daily Gift of Vitality, to allow a moment to pause and connect with what delights you. We will provide prompts and ideas along the way.

Allow quiet. Relax your eyes and close your eyes if it feels comfortable. Be present with yourself. Shift your thoughts to the word “Delight.” What images come to your mind? Think of times when you felt delight. What comes to mind? Are there people, places, things, or times of the year that are associated with delight for you? Jot down some notes that you can return to in the future when you want to reconnect with those thoughts of delight. Consider ways to add moments of delight for you or others this weekend.

An inspirational quote by George Henry Lewes, “Books have become our dearest companions, yielding exquisite delights and inspiring lofty aims.”

Photo by: Lester Salmins

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.
    • Relax your jaw. Gently bring your chin down to your chest, release your jaw muscles. Your mouth may open slightly.
    • Lift your head back up, leaving your jaw muscles loose and down towards your chest. Your mouth may open further.
    • Gently, lift your jaw up to close your lips and let your jaw stay relaxed. Smile and let your calm jaw muscles rest a bit more.

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP