Don’t forget to feed your soul
PHILOSOPHERS argue about whether we have an intangible essence that may or may not be immortal but no matter where you are on the spectrum, few would deny that underneath our roles as family member, employee, friend and more there lies an inner self.
Thanks to our busy lives, this inner self can sometimes be neglected. This week, take a little time out and nurture that inner you.
Quiet time
Running around getting things done is all about action. Forget about struggling with life and let your mind wander for a while. Switch off your phone, unplug the music and go somewhere where you can be quiet. If you’ve got a deserted beach or park near you, all the better, but you might choose to go for a swim during the week when the pool is not crowded, or for a walk along a park path that’s less travelled. There’s no need to push for a goal here: Just be.
Check for beauty
We see beauty every day but sometimes we’re so busy that we don’t notice it. Spend an hour looking at beautiful things made by nature: a tree, a leaf, a flower or a butterfly. Try doing this by standing on one spot, and include things you might not normally appreciate like a spider’s web or the ripples on a pond created by a fish swimming under the surface. By sensitising yourself to beauty, you’ll see more of it.
Laugh
Inner peace is terrific but for a boost, have a giggle. It doesn’t matter how you do it: a rerun of your three favourite comedies, swapping stories with your best friends – whatever makes you feel good, do it. If you’re short of ideas, go for a cup of tea with your friends.
Even if you don’t laugh a lot, connecting with others will be a positive experience.