Sensory Calming Techniques

I recently came across this easy calming technique using only your 5 senses!

OOTD, Fall Fashion, Calming Techniques, Mindfulness, Be Present, Selfcare

Sensory activities have proven benefits for children such as increased self esteem and improved emotional well being.  So why wouldn’t this also work for adults (with a few tweaks of course!)

For me I usually do one activity that combines all at least 3 of the 5 senses (like going for an outdoor run or setting up and taking pretty photos).  But the perspective of doing only 1 thing really speaks to the mindfulness and being present when doing a single calming activity.

OOTD, Fall Fashion, Calming Techniques, Mindfulness, Be Present, Selfcare, Beautiful Photography

So the next time you are looking for some calming activities or need to reduce anxiety after a stressful event consider these 5 techniques to awaken your senses and relax…

Smell: Light a scented candle

Sound: listen to songs that make you nostalgic

Taste: drink a mint or lavender tea

Touch: Hold hands or cuddle a pet

Sight: Look up at the sky

OOTD, Fall Fashion, Calming Techniques, Mindfulness, Be Present, Selfcare, Beautiful Photography

5 Ways to beat the winter blues & a trip to TO Christmas Market

When the whether dips, it’s not uncommon to feel seasonal depression.  With the sun no longer shining as much, the need to bundle up all.the.time and the persistent search of a warm getaway – it’s easy to lose perspective.  I am learning to give in a little bit.  Enjoy the warm soups, choose sautéed veggies over cold salads and drink as much tea as I want.

Here are a few other ways to enjoy the colder months…

Get cozy: fleece PJs (matching with family members? even better), fuzzy house coat, warm slippers and turning on the fireplace…!

A mug of your favourite warm beverage: Tea, coffee multiple times a day.  Better enjoyed with a friend.

Watch all the best movies or series: Ok so it’s true, Friends is leaving Netflix but there are tons of Holiday movies to enjoy this time of year.

A warm cozy bed: I love love love the feeling of getting into bed with clean sheets after a hot shower.  Switching to a duvet at this time of year can be wonderful.

Being grateful: Every morning and every night or really any time of day when you feel your mood slip.  Take a moment to breath and give thanks.

Another important thing to do in winter?  Get out of your house.  For a walk around the block, to an seasonal event or a winter activity.  Take a little more planning but you really won’t regret it.

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