Guidelines To Have The Best Experience
artwork by Lori Portka
1. Embrace Each Day
Start each day with a small morning ritual, even if it's just a moment of "me time." Try "scrawling before scrolling" or "sky before screens" to set a positive tone. This is putting your oxygen mask on first.
2. Positive Intentions
Set a gentle, kind intention for your day, phrased with a positive slant, for example ~ “I’ll choose foods that nourish me” instead of “I won’t eat junk food.” Focus on what you do want.
3. Mind Prep
Challenge old habits and embrace your amazing potential. This might also be about challenging old belief systems. Many of us have been conditioned to dislike winter (for example), so it might take a minute to seek things to enjoy about this time of year.
4. Hydrate
Drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily, pacing yourself through the day. Add lemon or herbs, and avoid iced water. You really might want to drink warm water or herbal teas.
5. Be on Your Own Mat (aka, your magic carpet)
Your wellness journey is unique. Don’t compare, and focus on what matters to you. Stretch yourself, but listen to your intuition. Make this a really cozy, personal experience ~ invite in things that feel super lovely to YOU.
6. Cheer-Lead Others
Support others in our group, whether through a comment or a like, or by being present in our zoom rooms. Challenge old beliefs that might hold you back from participating fully.
7. You Don’t Have to Do It All
Pick what works for you ~ this is a buffet, not a one-size-fits-all! Honour your individuality, while gently challenging yourself. If you have a competitive streak or feel you must check off all the assignments, let’s look at that. This is time for a more gentle approach.
8. Set Yourself Up for Success
Prepare, plan, and ask for help if needed. Release what no longer serves you, and embrace new routines. Sometimes these tiny tweaks that can be game changers.
9. Try New Things
Whether it’s in the kitchen, at the gym, or in your journal ~ try to be a little bit brave as you take baby steps towards where you want to go.
10. Ask Questions
We’re a supportive tribe! Share your wins, challenges, and questions ~ let’s keep it positive and encouraging.
11. Be Kind to Yourself
Treat yourself and others with compassion. If you stumble, reset without judgment ~ there’s no need for guilt.
12. Start Simple
Begin with baby steps and avoid diving in too fast. Listen to what your body needs and adjust as you go.
13. Be Here Now
Focus on the stage we’re in, day by day. No need to rush ahead.
15. Include Pleasure
Remember joy! Laughter, mindfulness, gratitude, and fun are all key parts of this process. Nourish your body and soul.
16. Practice Gratitude
Take time each day to express gratitude. It’s truly a powerful elixir for your heart and mind.
17. Affirmations
Feed yourself positive thoughts like “I am kind, I am strong, I am healthy, I LOVE this season!” These are soul-supplements!
18. Reach Out
Let others know what you’re up to and what your goals and dreams are ~ and ask for support. Encourage those around you to respect your wellness journey.
19. Be Lovely to Yourself
Buy yourself flowers, journal, spend time outside no matter the weather, wear your favorite outfit even if you stay home, don some lipstick, dance, read, watch something funny. Even small gestures of self-care can have big impacts.
21. Pay Attention
Observe your body and emotions with compassion. Your cravings, energy, and feelings are all communicating something.
22. Feel All The Feelings
This kind of focused self care can bring up all manner of emotions ~ just remember the adage “better out than in”! Allow yourself to feel, release, and let go.
23. Enjoy the Process
Embrace the sticky moments, the grumpy days, and the joy of learning. Equally, embrace the moments you feel elated and giddy and playful. Love yourself through it all, you are gorgeous!