Carly's Ramblings Blog - Style

Reducing Stress and Creating Happiness

30 Day Blogging Challenge

PROMPT March 15th
What are some ways you reduce stress and create happiness in your everyday life?

I have started the practice of meditation; doing Sahaja Yoga. I find it calming and I feel more centered in my life. This makes it easier to weather the more challenging aspects of my day and stayed buoyed above the chaos of what is happening.

I am not consistent in my practice. I should be aiming for 10 minutes in the morning and another 10 minutes in the evening complete with a foot soaking to rid my body of excessive negative energies that have lingered over the day. My low goal for the week is two 10 minute sessions, but I have been getting about 3 10 minute sessions and one longer community session on Zoom each week for the last several weeks.

I find my heart rate is lower and I feel calmer. It works for me.

I also try to do the things I love - my calendar quote for last month was - Do More Of What Makes You Happy. Writing is my go to. That is why it has been an integral part of my life, especially during times of trial and strife. I try to write 750 words a day. These words are a bit like Julia Cameron's Morning Pages, but they are done on the computer and not long hand on three sheets of paper. I gripe, I consider, I plan, but I also create poetry, prose and work on my current Work In Progress. I also blog. Essentially, I write whatever needs to come out at the time. I find it clears the way for the more creative aspects of my writing.

I also love to read. I have many books on the go and chose the one that I feel drawn to at the time. I read poetry, non fiction and fiction. I enjoy romance, mystery.... anything really.

Getting out for walks helps to clear my head. I find it hard to stay cooped up in the house for more than 24 to 36 hours. A walk around the neighbourhood will help, but getting out where there are other people is better. I enjoy people watching.

A perfect day would include a walk and a chance to write in a public place, like a cafe. Coffee and a treat are just the cherry on top.

With all the Covid-19 virus protocols in place, I am finding that I will have to modify my plans. Less cafe visits. No wandering around the malls. No library visits - KPL just announced a three week closure. WPL is still open, but I doubt they will stay that way. I have a feeling this March Break is going to be rather quiet.

I may have to incorporate some yoga to get my body moving without having to leave the house.

If the weather is nice, I may venture out to some smaller towns to walk and explore, but we will see.

I need to take precautions, but I also have to have a life. Stressing out about it only makes things worse. I also live with an older adult and want to make sure I keep her protected and not exposed to anything.