I really can’t believe its a New Year already! A lovely fresh new chapter unfolds. How exciting!

I do love making resolutions, but also know that unrealistic ones are silly, as the whole point is to try and stick to something. There is also no point in trying a new fad diet or vowing to go the gym every day. Resolutions are about introducing small changes that eventually change your way of life for the better.
Towards the end of 2017, I suffered with bad back pain, and this really got me down. However, I knew that my back was telling me to slow down, to make changes to my lifestyle or it would continue to limit me. My job is very strenuous to my posture, carrying a heavy camera and editing on most days for hours, really doesn’t do me any favours.  However, I think that I can point the blame of my back pain to stress, I always find myself in a whirlwind of chores, to do lists and wondering about the next thing I have to do.

So a small change, I will make as of this New year is to practise Meditation. I have tried before… yes I have. Its completely boring, and I find myself twiddling my thumbs thinking when will this end. However, I read something at the end of last year that really made me think :

From the Book  –  Emotional Freedom by Judith Orloff M.D.

When under stress the body releases chemicals – cortisol and adrenaline. Stress Hormones eat at your immune & nervous system, also tightening your muscles. They also cause inflammatory conditions.

Calm revives the body. When relaxed the body triggers the natural release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals reduce stress chemicals which in turn allows the body to let go of the tension, inflammation and irritability.

Judith recommends starting with a 3-minute daily meditation and increasing this as you become more comfortable with it.

A few points from Judith’s Book ( my own condensed version )

Reduce stress with a Three-minute Meditation ( you can use your phone to time the 3 minutes)

• Find a comfortable quiet place – Wear loose clothing settle into a relaxed position where there is the least interruption. It’s best to sit upright, on a chair, or cushion so you don’t fall asleep.
• Focus on the breath to quiet your thoughts. Eyes closed gently, place your awareness on your breath. Be conscious only of breathing in and out. When thoughts come, visualise them as clouds passing in the sky. Notice your thoughts but don’t attach any judgement to them, let them float by, focusing on the breath.
• Breathe in Calm and breathe out stress. with each breath, let yourself feel the air passing through your nostrils and chest like a cool breeze. Inhale calm and exhale frustration. As the negativity releases, your body unwinds releasing the good chemicals we need. Keep focusing on your breath and the calm.

Judith’s book can be purchased here – I highly recommend it.

As part of my relaxing routine, I also use essential oils to create a calming atmosphere within my home.

Relaxing Oils include

Bergamot, Cardamom, Chamomile Blue & Roman, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Lavender, Mandarin, Marjoram,  Sweet, Myrrh, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vetiver and Ylang Ylang.

I purchase my oils from Neals Yard Remedies – Their website is here

If you do start meditation as your 2018 routine, I’d love to hear how you are getting on.

Wishing you a Wonderful, Happy and Healthy 2018 friends

Much Love Tia x