Taking Time

The importance of taking time for myself in the busy‘ness’ of day-to-day life has always been something that I am aware of and once a personal routine becomes established I am true to make this a reality. At the moment, as I am finding my feet in a new place, Hamburg, Germany to be exact, this loving act of kindness has not been so easy to fulfil.

This morning I awoke to the glimmer of light that was peering into the room from the open window, sneaking in from behind the blinds. Today is a new day, each day holding the opportunity to make a change in my life, if needed, and to start fresh. I made myself a warm cup of lemon water and rolled out my yoga mat… my soul mat. Today I will put my physical, mental and emotional self first. This morning’s yoga practice felt like a long lost dream… These previous three weeks have been so full, so busy, full of pressure and stress as I work to get registered in this city, establish foundations, health insurance and find work to be able to then apply for the residency permit of my husband so we can stay here together! With one week to go until his current visa is finished, the pressure is very real. This pressure has been sitting and growing in the depths of my belly over the last days…and with these niggling tugging feelings I have become aware of anxiety. That ‘dis-ease’ that can begin subtly and without even noticing it, can creep through the body before it becomes engulfed with uncontrollable feelings of fear and uncertainty.

Tune in / Reflection

Noticing the triggers of this (and any other) ‘dis-ease’ allows me to become aware of the physical, mental and emotional responses that are happening to my body. Tuning in to the feelings and taking a moment to look inwards at why I am feeling this way and what is the cause…. a quick reaction will break the cycle of the possible downward spiral that awaits if left unaddressed. Some external stressful situations are unavoidable, but the way I choose to respond to that stress is up to me… how will I let it affect me?

A quick check in with myself… I am still doing what I love? Am I on the path that I have chosen for myself? Is this leading to a goal being accomplished? If it is then keep on going, take this challenge as an opportunity to grow stronger and overcome this obstacle! If I have somehow been lead off my path then perhaps this is not meant to be anymore and letting it go might be the best option. Self-reflection is the strongest tool! As I practice this act more often I have noticed that my intuition is growing stronger.

Clearing out/Letting Go

Once aware of the triggers, it is then possible to let go of what is not treating or serving me well. I am a very sensitive individual so having a cry is a perfect release for me. These tears cleanse my mind and leave me feeling like l have just created some space within myself for something new, a fresh idea or a new perspective to unfold.

Connect to a Passion 

One of my biggest guidelines for myself in all aspects of my life is “do what you love, and love what you do.” Especially in busy times it is extra important to connect to a passion. I love yoga, it enlivens my whole being, so if I can only make time for a short practice, 20 minutes even, then I will. Writing is another love of mine and I keep a journal to document my thoughts, feelings, my travels and it’s a kind of a scrapbook as well, keeping little highlights, maps and tickets from my life’s journey. Dancing/walking/hiking is another refreshing activity that awakens a revived energy within me. Nature nourishes! (In winter you will find me skiing whenever possible!) Read, loose myself in a book! Prepare a yummy, healthy meal! And connecting with friends and/or family, surrounding myself with positive people for inspiring conversation enriches my day!

Quiet Moments

A peaceful space, becoming mindful, notice the little details of the present moment… a meditative moment… the sound of the wind in the trees, noticing the coolness or warmth of the air as it touches my skin, smell the flowers and connect to a deep belly breath. A warm bath, essential oils… Taking time to just be still, find quietness within the body and allow my mind to have only a single point of focus. This is often the biggest gift I can give myself! This year I have started to really learn how to enjoy my own company so much and am becoming more and more happy and content to be with myself.

Each day offers the chance for a personal refresh. Tune in, reflect, let go and then take a moment for myself, whether it be active or quiet. These are my tools that I am sharing as a reminding to myself! I hope they may be a sweet guide for you as well!

Namaskar!