Around this time of year everyone gets really busy, its the end of the school year and Christmas is right around the corner. During times like these we tend to focus on getting as much done as possible instead of ourselves and our well being. I find that taking time out of my day to do these seven tasks really keeps me happy and focused throughout the day.
Warning, I used to think that some of these tasks were super silly, but since trying them for myself have found that they've really helped improve my overall productivity and mood. Please keep an open mind, you never know how these tasks could help you!
Meditation
When I wake up first thing in the morning I spend 10 minutes meditating, currently I'm using the Headspace app on my phone, it helps to clear my mind of any thoughts from the previous night and gives me a fresh and peaceful start to the day.
Read
I try to take at least 10 minutes to sit and read, either a book, magazine, article or another piece of writing you choose. Taking the time to just focus on written words always calms my mind, although often I get caught up and have trouble putting my book back down hehe.
Podcasts
Podcasts have become super popular and for good reason, they're bite sized pieces of information or stories spoken by real people. The podcast that reeled me in was, of course, Serial, but now I've branched out an have a few favourite podcasts I tune into weekly. At the moment two of my favourites are Ladies Who Lunch, by Ingrid Neilsen and Cat Valdez, and Distortiscope by Will and Dion. They're free from the app store and a great way to keep your mind active while driving or walking.
Light Exercise
For me this ranges from walking and yoga to running and pilates, but squeezing a little bit everyday just does wonders for keeping your muscles active and stretched out. Moving a little bit everyday is so good for the soul and has so many benefits for your health.
Baths
For me, this is very much a try to everyday rather than an I do everyday. You don't need fancy bath bombs or bubbles, a few drops of your favourite essential oils in some hot water would be perfect. I find that baths are perfect for loosening up your muscles in the morning or relaxing them in the evening before bed!
Planning
I know planning isn't super enjoyable for all but I think its a great task to keep you on track throughout the day. I tend to plan at two different times during the day, just before I go to sleep and while eating my breakfast. Before I go to sleep I like to make a list of all the tasks I need to get done the following day, numbering them in order of importance or urgency, while during breakfast I take time to look over my plan for the day and re-assess the possibility of completing the tasks at the times I had allocated. Often when planning the night before I can get a bit ambitious and in the morning it becomes obvious that I wont complete all my tasks so being able to reshuffle my daily plan is important.
Gratitude
During busy days we tend to take the little things for granted, so just before bed I take an old notebook and write down five things I am grateful for. Five different things everyday. Taking a moment to think about the good things that happened, both big and small, puts a positive spin on your day and helps to end it on a high note. Reflecting on things that we are thankful for can make us more appreciative during our every day.
Everyone's days are laid out differently and you may not like all of the tasks I've mentioned, however give one a go everyday for two weeks and see if it makes a difference. If it did you'll have enriched your days that little bit more and if not, then now you know for certain that it doesn't suit you.
What are some tasks that you try to do everyday?
Love and light,
Vasi-Marie xx
