Tools for reducing stress is what I’m writing about today and we’re only two weeks deep into 2023. On that note, I hope this blog post finds you well.
Not a lot to report other than it’s taking me longer than expected to get back to the swings of things. The Holidays were kind of a blur for me and many others.
Also, I don’t know if you heard, but the holidays were a gong show weather-wise.
I planned on making a quick trip to Calgary. Out on the 21st and home on the 23rd, but it DID NOT go as planned. I was pretty bummed because I wanted to spend Christmas with my niece and nephew. It’s about the kids, ya know?
Anyway, our flight was cancelled and re-booked. Then it was cancelled and re-booked again and then cancelled one more time. So, I finally decided to buy a new ticket on another airline and get the “F” outta dodge.
I GOT THE “F” OUTTA DODGE
I ended up arriving home on the 28th. Not the way I had expected to spend Christmas!
While in Calgary, I stayed at the Hyatt Airport for five days. Not a single decoration in sight. It didn’t feel like the holidays at all. But since it was and I had a lot of “holiday” time on my hands, I tried to make the best of it.
I read a great book, a long book for me, 624 pages (this one, if you’re curious). I watched A LOT of NCIS: Los Angeles because the History channel was doing a marathon. Then I stumbled upon the Netflix Comedy Special Sheng Wang: Sweet & Juicy. AND I LOVED IT! Watch it! You’re Welcome.
I’ve also linked to a few other things I’m really digging right now. Not affiliate link stuff, just stuff that I love. Tools for reducing stress. Things I’ve purchased and actually use that quickly bring joy and relaxation into my world, even during a non-Christmas Christmas at the Calgary Airport Hyatt in -35 degree weather.
These are just a few of my favourite tools for reducing stress, and I’m super pumped I threw them into my carry-on.
Let me know if you give them a try.
Tools For Reducing Stress
Toe Spacers
Not sure if you know, but I also teach pilates, and I freaking love toe spacers. These little squishy guys can improve the comfort, health, and well-being of our feet.
Toe spacers help to stretch out the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the feet, which may have become tightened due to long periods of walking or standing on hard surfaces.
In addition to stretching out these often cramped muscles, toe spacers also help improve circulation and balance. With enhanced circulation comes more energy throughout the body. Toe spacers can help us prevent injuries by promoting better balance and providing extra cushioning against hard surfaces when standing for longer periods of time.
All in all, using toe spacers is an excellent way to improve our overall foot health and comfort while also helping us prevent future injuries.
I love the soft ones, which is a great way to introduce some space. I’ve linked to my favourite here on amazon.
Mindsight Breathing Buddha
If you’ve been following along, you know that recently I was dealing with more anxiety and panic than normal. Because of this, I shifted how I was taking care of myself over the last seven weeks, and I’m feeling noticeably calmer.
So, for now, I’m going to keep focusing on those things and one of the ways I did that was by using the Mindsight Breathing Buddha. This squishy little guy is one of my favourite tools for reducing stress. Plus, it creates a gentle daily reminder to pause and focus on mindful breathing, and with color! It’s a great alternative form of meditation for those who prefer open-eyed meditation or struggle to focus while meditating.
I also bought a timed locked box from the same company. Unfortunately, I have yet to have a chance to play around with it. But when I do, I’ll let y’all know what’s up.
Reflex Massage Balls
These extra firm balls are fabulous for really hitting the ouch points and working the tension out of your feet. Not for the faint-hearted, but really great for those wanting a bit more pressure.
If you wind up buying these suckers,when you first use them, apply light pressure at first, they are tougher than they look. My favourite thing is to use these balls in conjunction with the toe spacers. Talk about a tasty treat for your feet!
Although these are some of my favourite self care tools that I used in combination with mindfulness and movement, they are not all I use. And, while they are helpful tools for reducing stress, you know what works best for you and your body.
And last but not least, three’s always a Lucia Light session. It’s still one of the most relaxing trips you can take. Click here to book your first or next session.
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