TURN OFF TO TUNE IN - SWIISH Blog

These days, it seems to be a lot of glory in being able to ‘to it all’. We want to have the perfect wardrobe, attend all the school events, be successful at work, make it to every social outing and we want to do it all with a six-pack and a smile. Yep, we’ve been there! We call it’ superwoman syndrome’ and it while it might seem like a good thing, it could be wearing you down.

Sometimes it’s okay to take a day off from being superwoman. In fact, it’s crucial. Otherwise, you’ll end up burning out sooner than you think! That’s why we’re trying this thing where once every couple of weeks we take a ‘mindful day’. What is it? Basically, it’s one whole day that you take to focus on nothing but yourself and your own wellbeing.

Here’s how it works…

SWITCH IT OFF

If you’re like us, you’ve probably got your smartphone in your hand 24/7. In fact, it’s probably in your hand right now. Ha ha! But today, you’re going to turn it off. Along with your iPad, laptop and the TV. Today is a technology free day.

We know what you’re thinking… you must be crazy. But trust us, it will make a world of difference! Technology is so distracting and it keeps your mind constantly buzzing. By switching off, you’ll finally be giving your mind a chance to pause and relax so that you can shift your focus back onto yourself.

STRETCH IT OUT

Stretching and yoga is a great way to get back in tune with your mind and body. Start by lying on the floor and reaching your arms over your head. Take 10 slow, deep breaths. Try bringing your knees in to your chest and rocking from side to side. Again, do this for 10 breaths.

Next, let your arms fall out to the side, roll your knees to the left and let your neck fall to the right. You should feel a slight release in your back. Hold this for 10 breaths before repeating on the other side.

Stand up and reach your hands above your head before bending forward and letting your fingertips touch the floor if you can. Hold for 10 breaths.

Repeat these stretches for about 10-15 minutes.

CLEANSE

A poor diet can leave you feeling sluggish, bloated and tired. You might not realise it, but this can end up having a huge impact on your mood as well. Eating too much sugar, fat and salt can also cause cravings to fire out of control.

Your mindful day is a great day to cleanse out your system and give your body a bit of a reboot. We recommend starting your day off with a big Super Green Smoothie. On top of this, try to fit at least 2 more juices into your day at some point (recipe down the bottom) and drink at least 2 litres of water. We know this sounds like a lot but trust us, you will feel AMAZING.

EAT WELL

Did you know that preparing food is actually soothing for your mind? Carefully chopping, cooking and even just following a recipe are all mindful activities. Make sure you tune out all other distractions such as the TV or radio while preparing your food to reap the relaxing benefits.

Below we’ve included one of our favourite recipes to try on your mindful day. It’s packed full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and is both nourishing and comforting at the same time. Plus, it’s super delish!

PAMPER YOURSELF

In the life of a busy woman, pampering is rarely made a priority. But no matter how busy you are, it’s important to show your body a little love from time to time. Start by giving your body a thorough rub down with your favourite body scrub (we personally love C Lab & Co Coconut Coffee Scrub). Apply the scrub and massage it over your feet, legs, hands and arms in a circular motion before washing it off with warm water.

Next, apply a rich body lotion that contains soothing scents such as lavender, vanilla or jasmine. This will help to repair any dry, damaged skin and will leave you feeling fresh, glowing and confident.

The act of painting your nails and brushing your hair are also mindful activities, so try working these into your pampering session as well.

MEDITATE

Meditation is the most important part of your mindful day. You can do it any time of the day but we find it’s most relaxing first thing in the morning or right before bed at night. If you’re just starting out, aim for about 10 minutes, then you can build it up from there.

See our ‘STRESS LESS’ post for a beginners guide to meditation.

While this is our suggested guide for a mindful day, don’t let it limit you. There are plenty of other activities you might like to try. It will all depend on how you’re feeling on the day and how you like to clear your mind.

Some other suggested activities include: