Being mindful is something I have struggled with for some time now. Papers are stacking up on your desk, you’re stuck in traffic, you have three tests in the next two days … we’ve all been there. Yet, there is a way to cope when things aren’t so peachy. I’m not promising an instant cure. But, taking a step back, removing yourself from a situation and getting your head in the right spot can help mitigate the stress you are feeling. These are a few ways I’ve found that help me assess the situation I’m in, take a break, and get right back on track.
PRACTICING YOGA
I cannot recommend yoga enough. Many people overlook yoga as they don’t think it is an effective way to exercise, or it’s “boring.” News flash, people, yoga CAN be a great workout or supplement to work outs. For me, yoga is a great way to asset the workouts I’m doing at the gym by using different muscles and stretching. Yoga has helped me to be aware of problem areas, whether physically or mentally. I highly recommend going to a yoga studio that has more of a spiritual or meditative vibe if you are hoping to gain mindfulness. By spiritual, I don’t mean religious. Spirituality in yoga is connecting with your inner self and understanding what your mental and physical blocks are and moving through them by way of the practice of yoga. I’ll admit, sometimes, it is hard for me to get into the vibe of yoga. However, if you just let go of your ego and embrace it, I can promise you, you’ll walk out stretched out in a way you’d never imagine and in a peaceful state.
My favorite yoga studio, St. Pete Yoga!
FIND INSPIRING QUOTES
Finding inspiring quotes can be an awesome way to get your mind in the right place. As cheesy as it is, sometimes, when I’m studying for a big test, I’ll write inspirational quotes each day in my planner to keep me motivated (even though my planner already has inspirational quotes, #extra). Pinterest is a great outlet for finding quotes and photos that inspire you. In order to do this, you have to be in touch for what works for you. I don’t consider myself a cheesy person, so the more typical quotes don’t really do the trick for me. On the other hand, I find myself annoyed with girls who use the word “hustle’ like it’s nobody’s business (anyone else?). If you’re looking for some great quotes to get your head right (get’cha head in the game?), head on over to my “words of wisdom” board on Pinterest.
My words of wisdom Pinterest board
WRITE A TO-DO LIST
…or three…Nothing gets me back on track like writing a to-do list.Taking a step back and assessing your tasks and responsibilities on an enlarged scale allows you to prioritize and focus on what needs to get done. I like to start by writing a monthly to-do list of what I want to accomplish. I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself to get through this list, but I think of it more as a goal-setting opportunity for the month. Next, move on to your week. What tests do you have coming up? Do you have a big presentation at work? Need to pay off your credit card? That’s what this list is for. I like to divide mine even further into different categories like work, personal, school, to buy, to clean, and miscellaneous. From here, I set specific goals like “Work out 3x this week” or “Finish presentation by 8/1.” I even like to give myself deadlines to help me stay on task. Now, take your weekly list, and go day-by-day. I create three tasks I must accomplish by the end of the day. I recommend having two things you need to accomplish and another simpler, less pressing goal like painting your nails or going to bed earlier. I then refer to my weekly to-do list, making sure I set each item as one of my top three goals moving throughout the week. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you take a step back and assess your responsibilities instead of being overwhelmed by everything and turning to procrastination.
I use my Day Designer to create awesome to-do lists!
GET A MASSAGE
Okay, obviously, this entails treating yo’self and a little extra spending money. However, for me, in the most stressful times of my life, usually when I’m studying for final exams, I like to take a break and get a massage. Having a massage gives you about an hour to just get away from everything, whether it’s your books, technology, or even other humans (except the masseuse lol). There is something about having the knots and aches removed from your body that helps you to refocus and get back on track.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
This may be a given, but taking a walk outside in moments of stress and anxiety can help you remember that whatever stressor you’re experiencing is such a small part of the world. That may sound depressing, but realizing that your problems are relatively insignificant and that you are literally one in 7 billion, can work to mitigate your problems. That biology test you failed isn’t such a big deal in the greater scheme of things. Not to mention, the physical component of being outside and getting your body moving can help you refocus when you sit back down to your task. Getting your blood flowing and smelling fresh-cut grass or saltwater can work wonders on your ability to keep your head in check.
Hiking in Puerto Rico
PET A DOG
Okay, this one is obvious. If you are stressed or feeling anxious, grab your dog and give him or her some love! When I was in high school, my dog often sat on my lap while I studied. I loved petting him and just taking a moment to calm down by doing so. If you don’t have a dog, go to an animal rescue and volunteer for a few hours. Though it may help you focus and maintain happiness, it likely means even more to that dog that doesn’t have a home. It’s a win-win.
How can you resist these little faces?
USE ESSENTIAL OILS
I love essential oils for different reasons. You don’t have to buy the super fancy essential oils that are all over Instagram (I’d call those a rip-off!). My favorite essential oils AND my essential oil diffuser have been purchased at T.J.Maxx. You can also purchase many different essential oils and accessories on Amazon. I use lavender oil to help me sleep, eucalyptus oil to help clear my sinuses, and peppermint oil to stay focused. The versatility of essential oils allows them to help you in many different situations. If you are feeling stressed, I highly recommend using essential oils to bring you back to a mindful state.
That’s all for now! I hope you all enjoyed my tips about staying mindful, focused, and de-stressed! As always, I’d love to hear your feedback and tips and tricks as well.
