EMBRACE EASE
live with ease
Let’s face it, we all know life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.
In fact, literally while writing this post, did one of life’s challenges rear it’s ugly head.
Though we won’t elaborate on specifics, suffice it to say, the breakdown was imminent and fear of the unknown started creeping in. Luckily, before any actual crying could ensue, we remembered our go-to practice, our “respond versus react” tool - breathwork.
After taking a minute to breathe deeply and be still, a feeling of calm took the feelings of stress and anxiety down a notch.
We gave ourselves that initial moment to feel the anxiety and then with that breath, permission to work through it.
Had we let it, the anxiety and fear it could have easily derailed the whole day’s mood.
In that moment, we chose ease.
And as the French say, “C’est la vie!”, right?
“BEING AT EASE WITH NOT KNOWING IS CRUCIAL FOR ANSWERS TO COME TO YOU.”
appreciate impermanence
You have gotten through your best and your toughest days.
We won’t ever know which days will be which. Some days even have an element of both.
Knowing things constantly change, can be both anxiety-inducing (for some of us…) and, even a bit exhilarating.
Anything can happen, at any time.
Just go with it and know that makes the good days - much more meaningful.
things to help you live with ease.
you can…
1) prioritize your self-care
Make choices that take YOU into consideration. Putting your personal activities on your calendar is helpful and makes sure you give the things that are important to you the time and attention you give everything else.
Making time for yourself while enjoying the most simple of moments can even be a bit therapeutic.
If habit stacking is your thing… do that. You can easily work self-care into things you already do.
listen to a podcast as you fold laundry
meditate just after having your coffee and before writing in your journal
do your affirmations during your walk/run
2) set boundaries
You can set the standard and expectation in your life within parameters you are willing to set.
Whether you’re setting healthy boundaries at work by limiting access to you in your attempt to achieve a work+life balance or limit time spent with over-bearing (or even well-meaning) family or friends - do it.
There is no need to over-commit yourself. Keep in mind, putting additional/unnecessary stress does impact your over-all mental and physical health - often leading to burnout.
Don’t be afraid of disappointing someone, especially at the detriment of your own well-being.
“BEAUTIFUL THINGS COMFORT; THEY BRING A REAL CLARITY AND EASE. WE HAVE TO CONTINUE TO MAKE OUR ENVIRONMENTS BEAUTIFUL - IT’S SORT OF LIKE A PRAYER. IF YOU SURROUND YOURSELF WITH BEAUTIFUL THINGS, YOU HAVE A BETTER LIFE - ONE WITH MORE OXYGEN.”
3) keep it simple + beautiful
Less is truly more. From the way you dress, to your spaces…
Living minimally and simply - gives you room to live, literally and figuratively.
Create a capsule wardrobe; keeping classic pieces you can mix and match the most
Donate or sell items you haven’t worn in a long time and are still in good condition
Instead of buying new clothing for every event in your life, just rent a beautiful outfit
Keeping items in your home/spaces that not only serve you in a practical regard and also inspire a bit of joy in you through their aesthetic beauty whenever you use/see it will help you appreciate and experience your daily life in a way you might not otherwise.
Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
Seeing the beauty in your own life - not just in a physical aspect - will help you move through your day a bit lighter and more softly.
4) do your rituals
We all know the frantic feeling of getting up late. It is a terrible feeling. Your alarm didn’t go off and now you are off your A-game all day.
Not starting your day slowly, intentionally and on your own terms, will definitely affect your mood and your mindset. If you’re not careful, everything after something negative happens, can easily start to feel like a downward spiral of doom.
Don’t give in!
We have said it before and we’ll say it again - a great morning starts the night before.
Put your keys by the door - so you’re not frantic when you should be out the door
Pack your lunch - so you get a few more moments in bed
Set your clothing out - so you don’t make your closet a disaster area
Write down the top priorities for your next day - so they’re more likely to get done
Get enough sleep - so you’re in a better mood
We understand things happen here and there that are beyond your control, so give yourself the best chance you can to have a great day.
Life is challenging.
Do your part to be at ease, the best way you know how.
