The practice of taking care of yourself is just that — a practice. Like a muscle we have to continue to work at. The same day—to—day cycles are an easy thing to fall into, but what about the little things - can you allow yourself to fall into those? Especially with the holidays coming up, find what feels good. Our challenge to you this week is to choose at least one thing from this list, and put it into action.
Deconstruct Something
If there’s no rush, challenge yourself to avoid creating one. One thing I recently discovered in spending time with myself is that I love creating flower arrangements. I’ve always made an effort to buy arrangements every Sunday, but have found something special in creating them on my own. Take coffee for example — it’s easy to go to a coffee shop and pick up a cup or pop a pod in the Keurig. Try taking it step by step — ground the beans, put them into a press, let it sit. Pro tip: practice your box breath (more on that below) while your coffee brews.
An Hour for You
We expel so much energy to others throughout the day. Family, friends, coworkers - the list goes on. Allowing your energy to go inward is something that for me, is a non-negotiable. Dedicate an hour of your day to yourself and yourself only. Take a little longer to drink your morning coffee. Take a group fitness class — it can feel really good to be with yourself while surrounded by safe energy.
Natural Light
Every year when daylight savings comes around I realize I’ve taken natural light for granted. One of my yoga teachers introduced me to a study that said getting 20 — 30 minutes of natural light in the morning significantly improves mood, health, and sleep. I can truly attest to this. In my first apartment in Brooklyn, I lived in a dungeon of a room with no windows. I’m not even sure this was legal?! I somehow lasted longer than I thought I ever would, but experienced low mood and energy levels. I now live in a completely sun drenched apartment and have experienced an unmatched improvement in my overall mood. Even my dog loves it (he crawls toward even the tiniest slivers of sun that shine on the floor).
Breath
Maybe you’ve heard of it, maybe this is new. Breathwork is a practice I’m in the process of exploring, but one of my favorites to do (and teach) is box breath. It’s quite simple and is an excellent tool in calming the nervous system. I’ve done this while on walks, sitting in my bed, and a ton while sitting at my desk at work. Here’s how it goes:
- Begin to inhale through your nose on a count of four
- Hold that inhale at the top for four counts
- Exhale through your nose on a count of four
- Hold your inhale at the bottom for a count of four
- Repeat
Focus on the sound of your breath, envision it as a color, lean into the feeling it gives you.
Practice Kindness
It’s that simple. Share your warmth with those around you. If you're making lunch, make it for someone else. Smile back — or even better — smile first at that person on the street. I know, i know, I've been telling you to save energy for yourself, BUT if your energy allows it, why not! You may discover that one of your love languages is acts of service.
About the Author
Jordan is a Brooklyn member of Wolven’s marketing team. Outside of Wolven, she is a certified yoga and pilates instructor. On her mat is where she finds mental clarity, physical strength, and her source of breath. Her energetic spirit and appreciation for the roots of the practice is visible in her teaching. Wolven is where she combines her adoration for fashion, wellness, and media.
