Feeling drained? The world and its opinions getting you down? Here are a few strategies that have helped me stay sane this year...

I don't know about you, but some weeks are heavier than others. Holding space for others can be tough sometimes. I can't express enough how important it is to prioritize your own wellbeing. Selfish, to me, isn't a bad word. It is not putting yourself first at the expense of others, but rather prioritizing your own needs so we actually CAN show up for others. If you too find it a struggle, try any or all of these strategies to reset:

1. Take a walk outside, preferably in the trees. I'm lucky to live near an amazing forest that I can escape to. If you are not so lucky, find the next best thing...a park, or even walking through your neighborhood. Just get outside and move. Sometimes I listen to nothing, other times I put in earphones and play a podcast or a playlist that calms me.
2. Yoga Nidra...even 10 minutes. This is my favourite of many forms of guided meditation. I find it calming yet energizing and has the ability to ground me and stop the spiral of thoughts or emotion that can sometimes take over.
3. Drink a tall glass of water. Slowly and intentionally, this alone can reset. Often when I'm stressed I find myself reaching for treats or things that will distract me. Drinking a glass of water can sometimes be the small, necessary pause that we need.
4. Listen to a wicked playlist. I have playlists for EVERYTHING. Music is everything to me. Sometimes I need calm acoustic, but other times I like music that will kick me in gear. Whatever it is, don't underestimate the power of music to shift your energy. Bonus if you move to it...dance, jog, groove... I dare you.
5. A hug. Healthy human touch is important for healing and wellness.
6. Smile & say hello to a stranger. Is it just me, or have people become awkward in their social interactions? Either we don't see facial expressions at all (aside from expressive eyes) due to masks, or people don't engage at all with others. Smiling (even if your face is covered), saying hello and greeting your neighbour when you're out for that walk, or checking out your groceries, can go a long way for both you and the person on the receiving end.
7. Going to bed early and getting a good night's sleep. I know this isn't always in our control (I see you parents!), but how often are we exhausted, and keep scrolling or insist on watching the next episode of our favourite show. Sleep is where we heal. Its crucial to not only our physical health but our mental wellbeing also.
8. Last, and maybe most important, UNPLUG and disconnect so you are able to reconnect with your own heart. We are bombarded with information 24/7, most of which isn't necessary. Apps, the news, work updates, emails and even conversations with friends and family, there is a relentless amount of information we are expected to process. Create boundaries, and choose consciously how much and what info you are consuming.

You got this! Remember, the smallest strategies can make the largest impact over time when consistent. Prioritize your mental and physical health.