Letting Go with Grace & Ease Through Transitional Times
Change is inevitable. Transitions are an integral part of our lives. Births, puberty, graduations, moving to a new home, beginning or ending a job or career, the seasons, a death.. all are opportunities or rites of passages. During these times, we are more vulnerable and unstable which is why it’s more important than ever to stay grounded and balanced through nurturing self-care. Here’s how to feel your best through the many transitions:
Get enough rest: In Chinese Medicine as well as Ayurveda, they suggest going to bed by 10 PM. To unwind and prepare for bedtime, it is best not to engage with any technology.
Spend time outdoors exposing your skin to sunlight….Great for getting a dose of vitamin D to keep your Immune System strong.
When you also awaken with the sun, it stimulates the hormone serotonin and cortisol that helps to increase heart rate, body temperature, etc. This helps to lift the spirits and awaken for the day.
Conscious Breathing: Take time each day to pay attention to your breath and practice deep, focused breathing. It will help to relax, rest and restore your energy. A simple exercise is the 4,4,4 breath…click link
Stay Well Hydrated: Drink ½ your body weight in ounces each day, herbal teas, broths, etc. Sipping on our nourishing veggie broths to go is another great addition as a daily wellness ritual to get more healthy liquids and nourishment.
You can also incorporate hot baths before bed to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. After your bath, try massaging your skin with unrefined sesame oil to help calm the nervous system and restore moisture to the skin.
Spend 15 minutes/day writing in a journal. This practice can include writing your vision or dreams of what you would like in this next phase of your life. Write what inspires you and brings you joy...what touches your heart.
Each morning and/or evening make a list of 5 things that you are grateful for today. Close your eyes, place 1 hand on your heart and one on your belly; taking a few deep breaths; open your eyes and feel your gratitude for each thing, person, place, etc. that you are grateful for today.Gratitude is key to helping to feel more calm, grounded and relaxed especially when feeling anxiety.
And finally, try to shift your mindset and use this transition time to renew. Transitions are opportunities to recreate and rebirth. Choose 1 or 2 new healthy habits. Be sure to pay attention to your daily rhythms, stay connected to nature….you can re-emerge from the what has past, choosing and creating anew refreshed, renewed and ready for your new life and vision!