| | Sign up for a daily inspirational or funny quote. When you check your e-mail, you’ll always have a cheery electronic treat waiting. Try www.quoteaday.com. |
| | Instead of grabbing a quick shower in the morning, take a bath. It only takes a few minutes more, but you’ll start the day feeling extra calm. |
| | Bypass the A-section of your newspaper and turn right to the birth listings. Read the baby names and weights and delight in the pure joy that screams out from the parents’ announcements. |
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How to delight in the everyday
Whether you describe the feeling you get from your me-zone as joy or stress relief, wouldn’t it be great to tote that feeling throughout your entire day? Lavinia Ann Wilson, a counsellor and life coach in Welland, Ont., says you can recreate that me-zone vibe no matter where you are. Here’s how: Get your zzz’s While this sounds incredibly basic, you can’t feel truly content and balanced if you’re exhausted. “If you’re not getting enough sleep at night,” says Wilson, “it doesn’t really matter what you do: you’re not going to feel that joy.” Step back When you find yourself in a situation where your stress level is rising or things are unpleasant, mentally pull yourself out of it. “See yourself as having a glass wall between you and whatever’s going on,” says Wilson. “And don’t let anything in that you don’t want to come in.” Safe in your own space, you have the room to take a deep breath and focus on calming thoughts. When you regain your sense of control, you’ll feel centred enough to push away the wall and tackle the problem.” Create a power slogan While you’re in your me-zone, pinpoint exactly how you’re feeling; then put it into a short statement like “I feel awesome!” says Wilson. “Keep practising it over and over and the self-statement becomes the event that creates joy.” So if you’re sitting in a dull meeting or standing in a long lineup at the bank machine, you can repeat this slogan to yourself and you’ll feel as amazing as you do when you’re in your special place. |
