We all feel a bit down at times. Instead of finding comfort in things that are not so nurturing maybe try the following... try stimulating the senses... eat your favourite food & really be mindful of each part of the process... like, not watching TV, chatting, or eating at the same time. This is a tip I learned from Erich Fromm's book 'Psychoanalysis and Zen Buddhism". Remember to treat yourself well. There are many people who treat others well but feel guilty about treating their self in the same caring way. Buy yourself some flowers. Meditate on them... appreciate the beautiful colours, their scent, and perhaps how their perfume fills the room. Try an uplifting aromatherapy oil, relax as you appreciate the aroma, sit back & listen to a favourite piece of music, meditate on an image of your favourite destination; really try to imagine you are there. Buy yourself some beautifully scented foot lotion and enjoy a foot massage, massage yourself with an uplifting scented lotion, or go for a relaxing massage.... wear an item of clothing that you feel good in, or a texture (such as silk) that feels good against your skin... dance and notice how your body moves in your environment...sing your favourite song out loud....go for a refreshing walk. Don't walk as if you are on a ten kilometre hike and you need to reach your destination asap! Instead walk while concentrating on better breathing, enjoy each breath and each movement.... Try relaxing in a beautiful garden....if the weather's is good enough, make yourself a picnic and take a book to read.... Try asking for the kind of life you really want. Whether you follow a particular religion, or not, the act of praying, even if it is just meditating to yourself and asking your inner self to help you on your journey in life....can have a very beneficial effect on your health...There is an element of Mindfulness and meditation in these exercises... Incidentally, Fromm saw a link between psychotherapy and Zen Buddhism. He believed they both trod the same path, finding your true self and your relationship with your universe... Enjoy because you are worth it :)
lorrainenorton
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