1.Slow Everything Down
Consciously take a moment to breathe in and out. Focus on being present and the simple act of breathing. Find pockets in your day where you mindfully create time for you with no where to be and nothing to do. Even if it’s a few minutes to stretch, make a cup of tea, journal or meditate, the key is to find those moments of peace.
In this busy world, it can be SO challenging to slow down, though pausing can help create the space to move forward with ease.
Reflect on how your perspective changes when you’re able to slow down; notice any differences within.
2. Look Within Yourself
Turn inwards and do a mental body scan.
What is happening in your body?
Are there feelings that are coming up as you scan your head, neck, chest, arms, stomach, legs and feet?
Are there messages that your body is trying to communicate to you?
Tune into the present moment and feel what you feel. Trust that the answers are within.
3. Lean In And Feel The Emotion(s)
Check in and ask yourself:
What is the emotion that I’m feeling? How do I feel?
Be curious. When you are triggered by an emotion, it can sometimes be challenging to check in with yourself.
Sometimes it’s uncomfortable to feel the feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, guilt and shame. In the short-term, it’s easier to escape and do something…anything to get rid of these feelings. Though, looking inside yourself to uncover these feelings and break through the discomfort can actually help you in the long run.
Looking within can give you a greater awareness of the beliefs that you hold. It can also give you greater insight into your patterns and habits.
A good reminder to share — “you are not your emotions.”
4. Tune Into Your Self-Awareness
What are the voices that are running inside my head?
What do I believe about myself?
In a world full of “doing,” it can be tricky to separate the “noise” from your own thoughts. Intentionally set a few moments in your day/week to jot down your thoughts and feelings — without judging (the key!). Just keep writing without editing and see what comes out on paper.
Identify the stories that are running inside your head. Are these stories serving you or is it time to create new stories?
5. Listen Deeply To Your Gut Feelings
Check in with your gut or inner guidance. It’s easy to doubt your inner voices, though really check in, trust and listen to the message that your gut is trying to tell you.
Listen to your internal dialogue/conversation. Pay attention to the quiet voices as well. What is the message that you need to hear?
Self-kindness takes practice and though it’s not always perfect, it’s work in progress. Keep persevering to dig deeper and notice the shifts.