Me Time

There are simply too many things in our lives to stress us out. Fortunately, there are just as many things that can make us happy. We simply have to take the time to notice them and bring them into our lives. Here are some of mine, but make a list of your own and then make sure that they play a significant part in your day... everyday.

*Take Time
I have decided that I want to be fluent in French, so I spend 15 minutes a day listening to a French CD. I am amazed at how much I can learn in just a few minutes a day. So how does this pamper me? Apparently, we can't think of more than one thing at a time, so if I am concentrating on my French lessons, I can't think about anything else. For those 15 minutes, I am doing something just for me.

*Treat Yourself To Chocolate
Research has shown us that chocolate contains flavinoids that are associated with a decreased risk of heart problems. That means, that if you want a little pampering, a little chocolate is a good way to go. Did you notice that I said a little!

*Change The Ending
When we are stressed, we usually are thinking of the worst possible outcome. Starting today, I want you to spend a little time imagining a happy ending. Think of the possibilities. For example, I often fear going to the dentist because of the chance that he might find a cavity. Wouldn't you feel a lot better if the new ending was a fast and easy examination? Why do we put ourselves through the stress of something that hasn't even happened yet?

*Master The Art of Day Dreaming
This is along the same thread as above, but we are expanding on it. Do you remember as a child, laying on your back in the grass on a hot summer day and watching the clouds float by. We imagined all kinds of things. Well, we are going to do the same thing, and if you want to use a grassy lawn, go for it. If you don't have a piece of grass handy, simply lean back and close your eyes. It doesn't really matter where you are as long as you let your thoughts drift to somewhere pleasant. My thoughts often drift to a past holiday in Martinique. Just 15 minutes and I have felt the sun on my face and the beach sand between my toes. And oh yes, there is also a contented smile on my face.