LIFE

When it comes to mindfulness, it's really easy to get lost. Being at home so often can cause us to fall out of good habits (Netflix marathons, sleeping until noon, and take-out have defined the last year), and the whole task of having a sound mind seems so daunting. Where do you even start? At the end of the day, the only person who can be responsible for your mental well-being is *you*. Don't fret though, GL has you covered. Especially during this time, it's so important to cultivate mindfulness in many healthy ways. Here are 5 ways to rejuvenate and treat yourself from the comfort of your home. 

1. Practice yoga

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Adriene Mishler (@adrienelouise)

When you do yoga, you're focusing on synchronizing your breath to your movement, which not only improves flexibility but allows you to clear your mind and focus on one thing and one thing only: how you feel. You can explore yoga's many benefits anytime and anywhere with a YouTube video. Try a video from Yoga with Adriene's channel. She guides you in poses and breathing and places a huge emphasis on how you're feeling physically and mentally. Her mantra is "find what feels good," which is really what yoga is all about. Try it out and #FWFG!

2. Get organized

Sometimes the key to mindfulness is decluttering. You can physically declutter by cleaning your room. Always start by making your bed–it makes such a massive difference. Maybe even go through old clothes or books and donate or sell what you no longer want. A clean space is definitely where mindfulness is cultivated. Further, you can mentally declutter by using organizational tools, such as the website Notion. You can tap into maximum productivity with Notion's many versatile features, like to-do lists, a daily, weekly, or monthly calendar, and so much more. Check it out!

3. Cook

Making food for yourself is one of the best forms of self-care because a healthy mind starts with a nourished body. Look up some recipes based on what you have in your fridge and make yourself something delicious. The way we eat is a huge factor in how we think, and a home-cooked meal makes anyone feel great! Side note: breakfast IS the most important meal of the day. Whether it's protein-packed pancakes, or a classic savory meal of bacon and eggs, beginning your day with a delicious, nutritious, homemade breakfast is a key ingredient in the recipe for mindfulness.

4. Journal

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Mindful Art by Garima (@mindful_art_for_soul)

Getting your thoughts on paper is an awesome way to cultivate mindfulness. Try starting each day by writing in a journal. This allows you to check into your feelings and emotions, set intentions and begin the day on the right foot. Here are so prompts to get you started:

How am I feeling today?

Who do I want to be today for myself and others?

What are 5 things I'm looking forward to?

What do I want to get done today?

In one word, what is my intention for the day?

5. Express gratitude 

Putting positive vibes into the world always makes us feel happier and more fulfilled. That's why thanking others is one of the most effective ways to cultivate mindfulness. Make a list of 5 things you're grateful for every day (bonus points if you do this in your daily journal!). They can be big or small, unique or mundane. Make it a point to thank your parents, teachers, friends and anyone else who leaves a positive impact on your life. If you're grateful for someone, always say so. You'll make them smile, and you'll feel great in return. 

Mindfulness is the foundation for everything you do, and here at GL, we hope that these practices are helpful on your journey. Tag us in the ways you cultivate mindfulness @girlslifemag!

Front page image by Jacqueline Munguía on Unsplash

by Ari Sheinberg | 6/14/2021