It’s cold and wet and what’s more we’re in lockdown AGAIN and going nowhere!

Herewith some wise words of wisdom from Caroline Foster to help alleviate those winter blues…

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W E L L – B E I N G  R I T U A L S:

“Everyday is a new beginning, take a deep breath and start again.” Buddha

Taking care of yourself is productive, this time is my anchor, my quiet time to nurture and reflect. January is the perfect time to create space in your life to be more mindful and to set some rituals that make you personally feel good. I believe if everyone can find little pockets of time they will help you find balance. 

My daily rituals ….

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MEDITATION:

“Knowing others is wisdom, knowing the self is enlightenment.” Tao Te Ching 

It is important to find a little quiet area of your home that’s warm with little distraction, mine is next to my bed and super tiny but its perfect for me. Being comfortable is key, you can sit on a chair, a cushion or anywhere that feels right for you, but it is important to keep your back straight. Every morning when I wake, I open the window and light my incense sticks so I start my day with good energy.

If you have never meditated before, try starting with just 5 minutes a day, Daily Calm or Head Space have brilliant Apps you can download to help guide you.

You don’t need any special tools, but I personally love to use my Tibetan sound bowl, chimes, mala necklace, Ganesh (I carry one with me at all times) crystals and oils.

Stepping into your own space helps restore your mind and sprit. At the beginning of the day it helps by creating clarity of mind and to re-set. At the end of the day it helps you wind down and to finish your day with thankfulness and positivity.

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MOVEMENT:

“The body benefits from movement, the mind benefits from stillness.” Sakyong Mipham 

Exercise – even if its just twenty minutes a day. I prefer to do mine first thing in the morning as it wakes up my mind and body to prepare me for the rest of my day. 

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BOOKS/PODCASTS:

“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” Roald Dahl 

I read a few pages in the morning and last thing at night, I have several books on the go at anytime, many I have read before but are all great sources of inspiration. 

I always listen to Podcasts when I am getting ready or when I am driving. Anything that makes me laugh, broadens my knowledge or gives me inspiration. 

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YANG SHENG – HAYO’U METHOD:

“A drop of prevention is better than a bucketload of cure.” Ancient Chinese Proverb 

Yang Sheng – to ‘Nourish Life’. The self-care part of Chinese Medicine

Hayo’u Method, inspired by Yang Sheng combining product, techniques and wisdom into simple one minute rituals. Supporting circulation, lymphatic drainage and increases immunity. 

Gua Sha – a massage technique using a round edged crystal. In the morning I use crystals and combs which is a super quick way to wake up your face and alleviate signs of sleep. In the evening I use the crystals for a bit longer as I have more time and can activate the acupressure points on my face. 

Bamboo Tapping – I use my bamboo tapper twice a day, tapping your body relieves stress, encourages the free flow of Qi and circulation around the body. If you use it firmly in the morning it stimulates your circulation and you feel instantly invigorated. If you use if gently in the evening its very relaxing.

I started reading this brilliant book Yang Sheng a couple of years ago, written by Katie Brindle who is a Chinese medicine practitioner. If you are interested in finding out more, Katie’s company Hayo’u Method has lots of tips and its where I buy most of my tools from.

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NATURE:

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” Lao Tzu

Everyday I walk our dog Bear in the park, living in London this part of my day is especially important. Humans crave natural daylight and our longing to connect with nature is reflected in our sense of calm when we are there. I love the Japanese philosophy – Shinrin-Yoku – forest bathing or nature therapy, taking in nature through our senses.