11 Tips to Stop & Smell the Roses

It has never been easier to connect with someone on the other side of the world, yet it is so easy to feel disconnected from the people closest to us. We have more tools than ever to simplify tasks and accomplish more things quickly, yet our to-do lists have never been longer.

Do you feel as though life is passing you by and the days go past in what seems like minutes? Today’s fast-paced world makes the days sometimes seem like a blur.

The tips I will share with you are meant to help you slow down, enjoy life, and focus on the most important parts of your day.

Tip 1: Take the time to prioritize daily objectives. By focusing on the most important tasks to get done, we eliminate the hustle and stress of trying to accomplish everything at once.

Tip 2: Cut personal Internet use by half. Technology has become a major element in most of our lives. Social networking, email, and web-surfing can occasionally cause our minds to lose focus and wander through hundreds of topics, thoughts, and ideas. Try to use half your designated Internet time to explore new hobbies, exercise, or meditate.

Tip 3: Enjoy nature. Make time for a 5-10 minute break to step outside and breathe in some fresh air. Disconnect from the rest of the world and concentrate on the beauty of nature.

Tip 4: Eat slower. A lot of us tend to speed through meals- missing the chance to appreciate different textures and flavors. Start to chew foods slower and distinguish new tastes, aromas, and consistencies.

Tip 5: Connect with family & friends. We all try to make a considerable amount of time to spend with close friends and family. We discuss life events and exchange stories, but how often do we catch up while truly listening and connecting? Put away the cell phones and steer clear of noisy environments. Connect on a deeper level.

Tip 6: Give yourself more time. Some of us like to stick to a tight schedule and plan all our daily events. Next time you’re jotting down new tasks in your planner, factor in a few extra minutes when estimating how long things will take. This will help you not rush through daily tasks.

Tip 7: Make time for yourself. When did you last spend valuable time with yourself? Take a night to find a new book, watch a favorite movie, try yoga, meditate, or cook a new recipe.

Tip 8: Take the scenic route. Next time you’re driving a somewhat long distance, take the scenic route. Driving through open fields, mountains, or viewing a city skyline can be very relaxing.

Tip 9: Sit for a moment with your eyes closed when you start your computer. Even just a few moments of meditation can set the tone for the rest of your day. Try to empty your mind and take deep breaths before jumping into your day’s tasks.

Tip 10: Remember your goals and aspirations. Each morning when you wake up, take a few moments to think about your life goals and aspirations. Recall the milestones you’ve already made in your life, and your drive to achieve new ones. Try doing this for about five minutes before getting out of bed to start your day.

Tip 11: Breathe! Take deep breathes in through the nose – fill your belly like a balloon – and exhale for the same amount of time and deflate the balloon.

Try these tips to slow down to help to reduce your stress level. Stress can have a negative impact on your immune system and overall health. Allow yourself the time to stop and smell the roses! Your health depends on it!

If you want help learning how to reduce your stress; or are curious about how health coaching can help you make your own healthy changes, then let’s talk! Schedule an initial complimentary 50-minute consultation with me today.