Tag: dance

Friday, June 17

Today is Friday, June 17, 2022.  Tapping into the excitement of a Friday.

A quote by Albert Einstein, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”

Photo by Dan Deziel

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

Move joyfully!

    • Put on your favorite music and dance!
    • Take a walk or ride with a partner, friend, family member.
    • Engage in an invigorating exercise class.
    • Hike or bike with a group.
    • Engage in a water sport on a sunny day.
    • Work in the Community Garden or on a farm.
    • Train for a charity walk/run/bike event.
    • Build or paint something large that requires physical movement.
    • Go horseback riding.
    • Explore the outdoors with your dog.
    • Swim laps meditatively.

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.
    • Choose a centering word that is neutral to you and simple. You might choose “now” or “joy” or “peace.”
      • As you exhale, say your chosen word. Focus on the vibration of the word as you hear it. Repeat.
      • As you exhale and say your word, imagine dropping a smooth pebble in clear water and watch it settle gently on the bottom, relaxed and comfortable.
      • Finally, as you continue your deep belly breaths, notice that the ripples on the water are gently gliding out. Repeat your word on every exhale until the ripples have settled.

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 

Friday, May 6

Today is Friday May 6, 2022.  Watching the squirrels frolic around the trees.

A quote by Paulo Coelho.  “When you dance, you can enjoy the luxury of being you.”

Photo by Dan Deziel, “Twins”

It’s Magical May!  This month, we explore things that can make us HAPPY, even for a brief moment.  Being happy can enhance your life, boost the immune system, and help build connections with others. 

Movement will boost your mood!  Try a Dance Party, you can do this by yourself or connect with others through dance.  Whatever you do, just dance like no one is watching:-)

    • Make a playlist of your favorite music and dance to it
    • Try to mimic the dance moves from your favorite music video
    • Sign up for dance lessons
    • Go to the ballet or watch one on the internet

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.
    • As you continue to breathe, offer the loving kindness statements to yourself and/or others who are important to you: May I be safe, May I be HAPPY, May I be healthy, May I live with ease.

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  

Wednesday, November 3

Today is Wednesday, November 3, 2021. Enjoying beauty in unexpected places.

A quote from Roger von Oech, “Everyone has a risk muscle.  You keep it in shape by trying new things. If you don’t, it atrophies. Make a point of using it at least once a day.”

Photo by: Fran Lee

This November, we focus on exploring Novel activities.  Experiencing novel activities fosters personal growth and confidence.  It can provide opportunities to interact with new people, and a time to get to know ourselves better.

Trying new workouts can invigorate your routine to continue to reach your fitness goals. These can be modified for your current abilities. Connect with a workout buddy.

    • Cardio drumming
    • Boxing
    • Yoga or Pilates
    • Dance
    • Rock climbing
    • Seated exercises

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.
  • After taking 3 belly breaths reposition your body.
  • Now shake your entire body and say to yourself, “I am letting go of…”
  • Picture the thoughts falling off while shaking your body.
  • Take 3 more belly breaths and smile to yourself for your courage to let go.

*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 18

Today is Friday, December 18, 2020.  In December 1903, Wilbur Wright flew the first airplane for 59 seconds over is distance of 852 feet

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.

Have a solo or virtual dance party.  Explore different genres of music to dance to: Latin, Jazz, House, Disco, Rock and Roll.  Remember, “Dance like no one is watching” and have fun!

An inspirational quote by Sharon Salzberg “You can explore the universe looking for somebody who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and you will not find that person anywhere.”

Photo by: David Clode

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. As humans, 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.
    • Flex and release your calf muscles, seated or standing.
    • Lift your heels off the ground and feel your feet stretch and your calves tighten.
    • Slowly release and flex your feet by bringing your toes up towards your shins. Feel the stretch in the calves. Then release and shake out each foot.

With gratitude and appreciation for all beings,

Naomi Parrella, MD & Fran Lee, FNP