Regroup, Refresh, Renew

If you're like most of us, the days after Mother's Day hit you like a bus. Chances are you're emotionally and physically drained. If you're a mom and work in the flower business, it's hard to take the time to celebrate motherhood when you're busy helping others honor their moms. However, it is critical to our well being that we unplug and allow our minds and bodies to regenerate.

Here's a few tips to help you regroup, refresh and rewind after a busy few weeks:

1. Talk a walk in nature. Physical exercise releases feel-good hormones in your body, which can improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress. Even a short walk can help you de-stress.

2. Practice some mindful meditation. Sit quietly, breath deeply and focus on nothing but your body's breathing. Each time your mind wanders, come back to your breath. Just a few minutes of sitting quietly to focus on your breath, can help calm your mind.

3. Take a hot shower or soaking lavender bath. The warmth of a shower or bath will help ease muscle tension, and calm the nervous system.

4. Prepare a healthy meal. It's important to nourish your body. Chances are you haven't eaten very well over the last few days. You may have grabbed some fast food, drank a bit too much to unwind and given into your sweet tooth. You digestive system needs nutrition to work properly. Having a healthy meal will boost your mood and satisfy your body's needs.

5. Unplug from your devices. It isn't healthy to constantly be on your phone or computer and it's important to set boundaries between personal time and work. Set a time limit and reduce exposure to screens, especially from work emails or stressful news. This will help you unwind and prepare for rest especially before bedtime.

6. Listen to calming music or nature sounds to bring down your stress level and anxiety. Even if you listen for a short period of time, music can calm our nerves and lift our spirits.

   
   

7. Spend some down-time with family or friends. Laughing with friends and family can enhance your mood and take your mind off your stress.

Get into the habit of setting boundaries and taking time for yourself after busy holidays. Happiness, joy and contentment is found in the little details of life. Sometimes you just need to pause, breathe and become present in order to see them.

"Our greatest experiences are our quietest moments"

Friedrich Nietzche