Wellness Wednesday
Dear Wonderful Friends,
I hope this message finds you in a state of peace and tranquillity. Today, I have the pleasure of sharing something truly magical with you – an experience and a practice that has profoundly touched my heart and soul. Imagine being enveloped in a world of calmness and serenity, like floating on a cloud. That's the essence of mindfulness, and I want to introduce you to a special way to embrace it – through the STOP method.
S: Stop and Pause Before Reacting
Life has a way of surprising us, much like a thrilling rollercoaster ride. In those moments, I invite you to STOP! Picture yourself as a sturdy tree, its roots anchored deep into the ground. Despite swaying in the wind, your core remains unwavering. Taking a pause is akin to pressing a pause button in your mind. It's the beginning of something magical, where mindfulness begins to flourish.
T: Take Three Deep Breaths
Now, let's focus on something incredibly important – your breath! Your breath is akin to a magical wand, capable of bringing calmness to your being. Take three deep breaths. Inhale slowly, filling your lungs with the fresh, invigorating air around you. Then, exhale gently, releasing any worries that may have taken residence within you. With each breath, you usher in harmony with your body, mind, and soul. It's akin to a peaceful lullaby, soothing your entire being.
O: Observe Your Mind Getting Quiet/Calmer
While you breathe, observe something truly remarkable unfolding. Your busy thoughts, akin to waves in the ocean, begin to settle down. The cacophonous chatter in your mind gradually fades away, making room for clear thoughts and inner peace. This calmness is akin to discovering a hidden treasure within yourself. Embrace this serene moment with curiosity and let it fill your heart with warmth.
P: Proceed with an Aware Response
Now that you're wrapped in a cocoon of calm and peace, it's time to respond to the world around you. But hold on, this isn't just any response – it's mindful! With your senses awake and alert, you can handle any situation with grace and kindness. Instead of reacting impulsively, respond with understanding and love. Your words and actions become gentle ripples of harmony, contributing to making the world a better place.
My dear friends, there you have it – the art of STOP. It's not merely a practice; it's a way of life. Imagine every moment as an opportunity to be mindful, to STOP, and to reconnect with your true self. You hold the key to this peaceful place within you. With STOP, you can unlock the door anytime, anywhere.
I had the privilege of reconnecting with a wise soul named Deepak Chopra, an experience that profoundly impacted my perspective. Deepak shared wisdom about our minds, the vastness of the universe, and the importance of love, joy, and creativity. His words resonated deeply, reminding me of the beauty of our world and our interconnectedness.
I hope you find solace and inspiration in the STOP method, just as I have. Wishing you moments filled with inner peace, wisdom, and boundless love. Remember, the universe resides within your breath, and you are extraordinary just the way you are.
With happiness, curiosity, and love,
Garnet Santicruz
Wellness Enthusiast