Prioritizing Mindfulness

Prioritizing Mindfulness: Slowing Down to Find Balance

In my 20s and 30s, stress was a constant companion. Whether it was work deadlines or personal commitments, I often found myself pushing through long hours without realizing the toll it was taking on my mental and physical health. Though I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism as a kid, years of failing to prioritize my health exacerbated these conditions and recently led to a diagnosis of alopecia areata. Looking back, I wish I had known the value of slowing down and embracing mindfulness earlier.

Now in my 40s, I’ve discovered how powerful mindfulness can be - not just as a stress management tool, but as a way of life. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, finding balance, and building emotional resilience. During a particularly difficult period in my life, I started therapy for the first time. I had always been hesitant, thinking I didn’t need it, but it was incredibly helpful to talk to someone unbiased. Therapy gave me the clarity I needed during that challenging time, though I’ve since stopped as I feel more grounded now.

In addition to therapy, practices like guided meditation and yoga have been transformative for me, helping me navigate life’s ups and downs with more ease.

Here are some of the tools and resources that have helped me on this journey. Whether you're new to mindfulness or have been practicing for years, these suggestions can support your path toward inner peace and balance:

Yoga & Meditation Essentials

1. YouTube Channels
   (Shameless plug: I have to self-promote, right?) I’m excited to share that I’ve just started my YouTube channel, Vitality Meditations, where I guide meditations designed to bring calm and clarity to your day. I would love your support as I grow this channel! Starting small, with just 10 minutes a day, can make a significant difference in how you manage stress and find moments of peace. Join me on this journey, and let’s create a mindful community together!

2. Yoga Mat
   A good yoga mat makes a world of difference in your practice. The Feetlu Yoga Mat is one of my favorites. It’s durable, non-slip, and provides just the right amount of cushion for my joints during longer sessions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, investing in a quality mat can help you stay committed to your practice.

3. Yoga Blocks and Strap
   Flexibility and balance aren't things that comes overnight. Yoga blocks and straps can help bridge that gap, especially if you’re just starting. I love the Clever Yoga Blocks and Leg Stretching Strap because it helps deepen my stretches without straining, which allows me to progress at my own pace while still respecting my body’s limits.

Mindful Creativity and Relaxation

4. Adult Coloring Books & Colored Pencils
   Taking time to disconnect and engage in something creative can be a mindfulness practice all on its own. I’ve found that Vive Le Color! Mandala and Portable Color Me Calm are some of my favorite adult coloring books to unwind with. Pair these with Covacure Colored Pencils for a therapeutic, creative outlet that lets your mind focus on the simple act of coloring—a great way to practice mindfulness while getting your creative juices flowing.

5. Aromatherapy
   Aromatherapy is another wonderful way to integrate mindfulness into your day. I use the EQUSUPRO Aromatherapy Diffuser to fill my space with calming scents, which help me relax and stay present. Aromatherapy can complement meditation and yoga, turning your space into a sanctuary of calm.

Mental Health Apps & Resources

6. Mental Health Apps
   In today’s digital age, mindfulness is just an app away. Headspace and Calm are two of the most popular apps for guided meditations, sleep aids, and stress relief. Whether you're working through anxiety, struggling to sleep, or just need a moment of calm in your day, these apps offer a wide range of tools that can be easily integrated into your routine.

7. Books for Mindfulness and Inspiration
   Sometimes, a good book is the perfect companion on your mindfulness journey. Two that have been particularly impactful for me are The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy, which delves into the science of positive thinking, and Warrior Pose: How Yoga (Literally) Saved My Life by Brad Willis, a deeply inspiring memoir about the healing power of yoga.

Conclusion: Start Small, Stay Consistent

If you’re new to mindfulness, remember that it’s okay to start small. You don’t have to dive in all at once. Even dedicating just 10 minutes a day to meditation or yoga can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. The key is consistency. As you build your practice, you’ll start to feel more connected to yourself and better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

Finding balance is a lifelong journey, but with the right tools and practices, it becomes much more manageable—and, dare I say, enjoyable. Whether it’s through yoga, meditation, or simply taking time to color, the benefits of mindfulness will begin to unfold before you.

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