Simple Rituals for Greater Wellbeing

“The only certainty is uncertainty, and knowing how to live with insecurity is the only security.” ~John Allen
 For the past 14 or so months, this quote is certainly one we’ve lived by. And while the future may feel brighter than it has for a while, the structure of our days is still largely in limbo. With all of the constant upheavals, it’s no wonder we’re scratching our heads trying to figure out what day it is...and where the past year has gone!
 If you’re feeling a bit adrift, rituals are a wonderful way to center yourself amidst the changing tides and create an anchor to mark the passage of time. They don’t have to be anything fancy or elaborate; we at HHA find that just carving out a few minutes each day can be remarkably nourishing to your mind, body, and soul. Best of all, there’s endless room for creativity.

Below, check out some of our favorite ideas!

 Wake Up Gently
It’s no secret that our mornings set the tone for the entire day. That’s why it’s so important to begin as you mean to go on. Just waking up five minutes earlier — perhaps to a more pleasant alarm sound — can give you time to think about the energy you want to bring forth. Here’s a few way to start the day with positivity and intention:
❖      Practice gratitude. Whether you write out a list or just take a mental note, starting the day with a grateful heart opens your eyes to the miracles and blessings at play in your life.
❖      Take a few minutes for deep breathing. The quality of your breath is the quality of your life!
❖       Visualize wellbeing. Imagine light in whatever color appeals to you, and guide it down your body to wake you up. Visualize this light bringing health and wellbeing to every part of your body as it flows. Or, picture yourself in a beautiful spot in nature; your energy system still gets the same charge from visualizing it.
 “There are always things on the agenda that needs to be done, but we really do have the ability to choose how we go through the day,” says HHA founder Beth O’Boyle. “These rituals can help shift our energy in a powerful way. We can choose to feel empowered and at ease, rather than resentful.”
 
“Heaven Rushing In” Practice
For those moments you feel disconnected, Beth recommends an uplifting practice called “Heaven Rushing In” from Donna Eden.
 Here’s how to do it: Simply stand tall, take a breath in, and on your exhale, bring your hands into a prayer position in front of your heart. With another deep breath, open your hands and arms to the sky and invite in its healing energy. Then, scoop all of that energy from the universe and bring your hands back to heart center.
 If you can try this outside, there’s something extra nourishing about opening up your arms to nature and reconnecting with the bigger picture.
 
Ground Yourself
In today’s chaotic world, a little grounding goes a long way! Taking the time to regularly ground yourself allows you to be present and feel fully more connected to your body and life. Practices that connect us to nature are inherently grounding, whether it’s walking barefoot in the grass or just reading a book outdoors.

“Touching your feet to the earth actually harmonizes the energy in your body in just 10 minutes,” Beth explains. “The soles of our feet and the earth have magnetic charges, so it’s almost like a magnet for us. When you place your feet on the earth, you’re reconnecting that circuit.”
 
Aromatherapy
There are endless ways to use essential oils to support your health and wellbeing. If you work from home, diffusing a scent you love can start the day on a more positive, upbeat note. Certain essential oils have different benefits; for instance, peppermint is well-known for keeping you awake and focused. Lemon, tangerine, vanilla, and spearmint are all great options too. Or, to unwind before bed, consider starting a nightly ritual of rubbing essential oil onto the soles of your feet. Lavender is a popular choice for encouraging relaxation, but feel free to use whatever scent is relaxing to you.
 If you’re looking for specific benefits (rather than just a good smell), make sure to use a diffuser that doesn’t rely on heat to preserve the biochemical integrity of the oil. Cool-air diffusion will keep its delicate properties fully intact. For a great selection of cool-air diffusers and high-quality essential oils, we love www.youngliving.com. If you’re new to the site we’re happy to share our number: 220708.
 
Take Intentional Breaks
It might seem obvious that taking a break should be a daily ritual — but we know it’s easier said than done! Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media or skipping your break altogether, find a way to nurture your spirit while taking a breather. You can pour a nice cup of tea or a latte, talk a walk, stretch or enjoy some yoga. Whatever you choose, try to take a break from your devices.
 It’s also worth a mention that spring is an ideal time to simplify and refresh your work environment. You don’t have to do it all — just pick one area to focus on at a time. Perhaps you create a little altar with fresh flowers, stones or crystals, or cherished photos, add brighter colors, or display a meaningful quote.
 
Embrace Visualization 
Visualization is an incredibly powerful way to release negativity and deliberately direct your energy for the day. Here’s two great ideas from Beth:
❖      For when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed: Find somewhere quiet to sit and close your eyes. Whatever it is that feels burdensome, imagine it as a backpack or weight on your shoulders. Visualize yourself putting it down, taking a breath, and feeling free. Just breathe and notice what arises with a pleasant, slightly detached curiosity (without any praise or blame). Give yourself a judgment-free zone. If you don’t attach to it, it will release of its own accord. You don’t have to feel the emotions connected to it; let the thoughts float away.
❖      For when you’re feeling isolated or disconnected: Find somewhere quiet to sit and close your eyes. Here, we’ll tap into that invisible web that connects us all. Imagine sending out threads or strands of light to all the people you love (pets included!). You can even send it to the earth, or imagine the strands of light connecting everyone. Just that gentle touch with light registers with them, and it’s a nice way to bring them into your little tapestry. If it’s nighttime, you can imagine drifting off to sleep surrounded by the people you love and care for.
 We truly hope these ideas inspire your days and give you a stronger sense of meaning and purpose despite the uncertainty of the times. And of course, we’re always here to help you find greater balance with both remote and in-person offerings. Check out our holistic healing modalities here: https://www.hudsonhealingarts.com/our-services.html