Take Some Time

When we take the time to recognize our emotions as they arise, we are giving ourselves a gift.  We are giving ourselves permission to stop. We are saying, "Hang on a second.  Let's explore this emotion and see what it means before we decide how we want to respond." Too often we react instead of respond.  We don't let ourselves sit with our emotions before taking action. Today, see if you can take some time to be with your emotions. See what happens when you give yourself some space to explore whatever it is you're feeling before you respond.

Mindful Coloring

Something as simple as coloring or doodling can bring us into the present moment.  There are some great coloring books out there if you look.  

Simply bring your awareness to the color you are using. Watch as the color starts to spread or the design takes shape.  Notice your breath as you move your hand and shift your arm. Give yourself the gift of presence and explore the sensations that arise throughout the activity. 

Your Skin

Bring your attention to your skin.  Gently close your eyes and bring your awareness to the part of your body where your skin is exposed. What does it feel like?  Can you sense the air around you? What's the temperature?  Simply explore what your skin feels like in the environment you're in right now.

Tap into Joy

We don't always look for the joy in what we do and some things carry a weight that appears heavy.  These are often disguised as chores that are a burden and a barrier to our joy.  Today, I invite you to accept that the love and joy within you is always with you and that there is no possible way that it cannot be.  With this understanding, bring your love and joy to every task you set out to accomplish today. Know that they are already there inside you and that you can tap into them whenever you want.

Writing

Some people like to start their day off by getting all of their thoughts out on paper. Writing can be a powerful way to get centered and clear.  This type of writing is often called stream of consciousness writing and can be a helpful way to get out of your head and into your life.  Take five minutes today to write without stopping. There's no need to read what you've written.  In fact, I would urge you to close the notebook after you're done.  By simply writing your thoughts down, you can become present to your life as it unfolds.

Wobble

Many of us spend our lives trying to do everything to the best of our ability.  There's nothing wrong with that.  In fact, it can be an admirable trait.  Today, however, I invite you to explore what it's like to wobble a little bit. Instead of trying to do everything perfectly, see if you can be okay with doing enough.  So what if you mess up or fall down? You've fallen before and you know that you can get back up. Relieve some of the pressure and explore what it's like to do just enough.

Compassionate Action

Sometimes we think that a generous act takes a great deal of energy.  This idea leads us to believe that if we had enough time or enough resources we too could take action. Today, I invite you to follow through with compassionate action when the moment arises.  When you feel a desire to do something kind, act on it.  It could be something as simple as smiling at someone as they walk by or holding a door.  Maybe you give half of your sandwich to someone you feel needs it more than you or you donate your time and energy to a cause you believe in. Whatever it is, listen to your heart and take compassionate action as you move through your day.