The post 8 Morning Habits Everyone Should Be Doing appeared first on Erica Diamond.
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There’s a popular saying that goes, “The way you start your day sets the tone for the rest of it.” Indeed, morning habits can significantly impact your productivity, mindset, and overall well-being.
Spring is such a beautiful time to start forming new habits – spring is the season of growth and renewal.
Whether you’re an early riser or someone who hits the snooze button a few times before reluctantly rolling out of bed, incorporating positive habits into your morning routine can make all the difference. Today I’m sharing 8 morning habits that you should consider adopting to kickstart your day on the right note and set the stage for a successful day (and yes, a successful life).
2. Start Your Day With A Tall Glass of Room Temp Water (and 1-2 always before coffee or tea): Starting the day with a room temperature glass of water is a simple yet powerful habit with numerous benefits for our health and well-being. After a night of sleep, our bodies are naturally dehydrated, and rehydrating with water upon waking kickstarts our metabolism, aids digestion, and flushes out toxins accumulated overnight.
3. Practice Gratitude: Taking a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for sets a positive tone for the day ahead, fostering a mindset of abundance and appreciation. Numerous studies have demonstrated the profound impact of gratitude on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Research has shown that practicing gratitude regularly can lead to increased happiness, improved relationships, and enhanced overall life satisfaction. Cultivating a grateful mindset can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, boost resilience in the face of adversity, and promote greater feelings of optimism and joy. Gratitude is real, and it’s spectacular.
4. Move Your Body for 20 Minutes: Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, outdoor bike ride, dance party in your kitchen, or quick workout, incorporating physical activity into your morning routine boosts energy levels, improves mood, and enhances overall health. It also will keep you more focused throughout the day, and more creative! It doesn’t matter what you do – what matters is that you do something you enjoy – that’s how you’ll ensure it gets done!
5. Plan Your Day: Spend just a few minutes outlining your priorities and tasks for the day ahead. This allows you to approach your day with clarity and purpose, maximizing productivity and minimizing stress. When you know where you’re going today, it helps you feel empowered, organized and on top of your day.
6. Limit Screen Time: Such a biggie. Resist the temptation to immediately reach for your phone or computer upon waking. Instead, allocate time for all the things I’ve mentioned in this post. Engaging with digital screens right after waking can bombard your senses with information overload, potentially increasing stress levels and diminishing mental clarity. This habit can also prevent you from fully embracing moments of tranquility and introspection that are often vital for setting intentions and priorities for the day.
7. Read for 10 Minutes: Taking just 10 minutes to read in the morning can yield numerous benefits for your mental and emotional well-being. Reading in the morning enhances cognitive function, sharpening your concentration and improving your ability to retain information throughout the day. It also offers a moment of solace and introspection, providing a valuable opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a world of imagination or knowledge. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or articles, this short reading session can inspire creativity, broaden your perspective, and instill a sense of accomplishment, all before the day’s demands begin!
8. Set Intentions: Before diving into your daily routine, take a moment to set intentions or affirmations for the day. Visualize your goals and aspirations, cultivating a positive mindset and empowering yourself to make the most of every opportunity. This goes so beautifully well with our gratitude practice above, and planning our days. Some examples of intentions:
Incorporating a few to all of these 8 morning habits into your daily routine can transform your mornings from rushed and chaotic to calm and purposeful.
By making small but meaningful changes, you can set yourself up for success, productivity, and overall well-being. Remember, consistency is key, so commit to integrating these habits into your morning routine and watch as they positively impact not only your days but your life as a whole.
Embrace the power of mornings and seize the opportunity to start each day with intention, mindfulness, and vitality.
If you feel ready to make your well-being and happiness a priority this year, I invite you take a deep dive in our powerful self-care community, BUSY TO BLISS.
Sending you lots of love,
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]]>Being a women to me means being courageous. It doesn’t mean that I won’t fall, but I damn well will dust myself off and get back up. It means resilience personified.
Being a woman to me means caring for my loved ones, but caring for myself too. Women are good at nurturing, but not so good at self-care.
Being a woman means I can be powerful and kind at the same time.
The post What It Means To Be a Woman On #InternationalWomensDay appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>What does being a woman mean to you? Have you ever stopped to think about this?
On International Women’s Month and International Women’s Day coming up March 8, being a woman to me means being brave, and being vulnerable. There is strength in showing when you’re hurting or feeling something deeply- because it means you’re open to change. It means you’re evolving. It means that you’re not sliding it under the rug and then one day, erupt.
Being a women to me means being courageous. It doesn’t mean that I won’t fall, but I damn well will dust myself off and get back up. It means resilience personified.
Being a woman to me means caring for my loved ones, but caring for myself too. Women are good at nurturing, but not so good at self-care.
Being a woman means I can be powerful and kind at the same time.
Being a woman means I define my own version of success- and I don’t owe anyone any explanation as to why that is my version. I own my version. It is MY dream life.
Being a woman means we have a responsibility to the entire sisterhood. We shouldn’t take that lightly.
Being a woman on International Women’s Day means celebrating and acknowledging the extraordinary strength that resides within each and every one of us. It’s also a reminder that every woman’s story contributes to the rich tapestry of progress and empowerment. This month, let’s honor the achievements, amplify voices, and continue striving for a world where women’s equality is not just a goal but a reality.
Happy International Women’s Month to all my sisters near and far.
I have compiled a list of my favorite 20 quotes in honor of International Women’s Day:
1. “What makes you different makes you beautiful.” – Author Unknown
2. “Life is a dance between making it happen, and letting it happen.” – Arianna Huffington
3. “My heart is at ease knowing that what was meant for me will never miss me, and that what misses me was never meant for me.” – Imam ash-Shafi
4. “The ship that you’re waiting for to come in may very well be the ship that you need to build.” – Eddie Harris Jr.
5. “Never give up on what you really want to do. The person with big dreams is more powerful than one with all the facts.” – Albert Einstein
6. “Don’t judge those who try and fail. Judge those who fail to try.” – Author Unknown
7. “To achieve greatness, start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe
8. “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou
9. “Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith.” – Margaret Shepard
10. “You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down.” – Mary Pickford
11. “Sometimes you win. Sometimes you learn.” – Author Unknown
12. “Let loose of what you can’t control. Serenity will be yours.” – Unknown
13. “Be brave enough to live creatively. The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. You cannot get there by bus, only by hard work, risking and by not quite knowing what you are doing. What you will discover will be wonderful: Yourself.” – Alan Alda
14. “And the time came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” – Anais Nin
15. “It’s very simple: When you’re working your hardest, the world opens up to you.” – Russell Simmons
16. “She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails.” – Elizabeth Edwards
17. “They tried to bury us. They didn’t know we were seeds.” – Mexican Proverb
18. “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.” – Theodore Roosevelt
19. “Just because you used to be, doesn’t mean you have to be.” – Dallas Clayton
20. “Self care isn’t vanity, it’s sanity.” – Erica Diamond
I would like to take this moment to pay tribute to all the women who have inspired me along the way in my journey– there are too many to name. And thank YOU, EricaDiamonders, formerly WomenOnTheFencers. I dedicate this to you, my readers of almost 15 years, who have taught me the value of a sisterhood of warrior women who live far and wide around this globe, but who are united by the desire to be a better woman than they were yesterday. I salute you.
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]]>The post 7 Steps To Overcome Procrastination: A Journey to Productivity appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>Procrastination is a common challenge that many of us face, hindering our personal and professional growth. But understanding why we procrastinate provides practical strategies for us to overcome it, and emphasizes the transformative power of cultivating a proactive mindset.
Procrastination affects people of all ages, genders, professions, countries. You name it– it doesn’t discriminate. Understanding the root causes and implementing effective strategies is important for your personal and professional success.
To beat procrastination we must first understand…
Why We Procrastinate…
Procrastination often stems from fear, anxiety, perfectionism, lack of motivation, poor time management skills and other factors. Recognizing these factors in our lives is the first step towards overcoming procrastination. By understanding the psychological barriers, we can develop tailored strategies to address their specific challenges.
What are 7 steps to overcoming procrastination?
An essential aspect of overcoming procrastination is adopting a growth mindset. What does mindset have to do with it, you might ask? Well, embracing the belief that our abilities can be developed through hard work, dedication and consistency encourages us to view our challenges as opportunities for growth. This shift in mindset fosters resilience and perseverance in the face of procrastination.
When we realize that with the right strategies we can change our lives, this in turn helps reshape our mindset from a scarcity and fixed mindset, to one of abundance and endless possibility.
2. Setting Realistic Goals and Prioritizing Tasks
Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals can make overwhelming projects and tasks so much more approachable.
By creating a realistic timeline and prioritizing our tasks based on importance, we can alleviate some of the pressure that often leads to procrastination.
Think: what can you defer, delegate or delete to make room for the important stuff? The stuff you must do– our fourth ‘d.’
3. Creating a Positive Workspace
Your environment plays a significant role in your productivity. Designing a workspace that is conducive to focus and creativity can reduce procrastination. Minimizing distractions and clutter, incorporating natural light, and personalizing your space all contribute to a positive and motivating atmosphere.
My office has flowers, magazines, Bliss Essential oils, picture frames – I like to keep it clutter-free and make it an inviting place to want to work.
4. Utilizing Time Management Techniques
Effective time management is a key component of overcoming procrastination. Techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, and the Eisenhower Matrix help structure your time efficiently, promoting a sense of accomplishment and reducing the likelihood of procrastination.
5. Building Accountability and Seeking Support
Sharing your goals with your friends and family and building a support system will provide accountability and encouragement. Joining BUSY TO BLISS: The Self-Care Membership Community provides the ultimate in accountability and support. Collaborating with peers, mentors, or accountability partners creates a sense of responsibility, making it more challenging to succumb to your procrastination.
6. Embracing Failure and Learning from Mistakes
Perfectionism often contributes to procrastination because we fear making mistakes – and then what does this do? It paralyzes us from taking action. Embracing failure as a natural part of the learning process (which no one is exempt from) allows for our personal growth. Learning from our mistakes fosters resilience and adaptability, reducing the fear that often leads to our procrastination.
Choose progress over perfection whenever possible.
7. Celebrating Small Wins
Recognizing and celebrating small achievements along the way is crucial for maintaining our motivation. By acknowledging our progress, by celebrating our wins no matter how small, this reinforces our positive behaviors and creates a cycle of motivation that will counteract procrastination. Yes, it’s real and it’s spectacular!
Overcoming procrastination is a transformative journey that requires self-reflection, commitment, and a proactive mindset. By understanding the true nature of procrastination and implementing practical strategies, we can start to cultivate habits that lead to our increased productivity, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life.
If you’re ready to finally end procrastination in your life, I invite you to look deeper into BUSY TO BLISS. In this powerful self-care membership, we tackle procrastination and time management strategies head on. Busy to Bliss is a Private Community Dedicated To Transformative Self-Care For Busy Modern Women With Real Life Schedules. Any questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out.
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]]>The post 7 Signs That Stress Is Starting To Affect Your Health appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>I saw this on social media a while back, as was like, “Ain’t that the truth!?”
Can you relate?
Many could.
But here’s the truth: unfortunately, stress damages our brain.
Stress, pressure, fatigue, poor diet, alcohol, and drugs damage neural connections between the brain’s prefrontal cortex—or “CEO”—and the rest of the brain. When you are overtired or under intense mental or physical stress, the brain bypasses its “higher,” more evolved, rational frontal executive circuits—it starts using more primitive stimulus/response pathways. Consequently, you respond to daily demands without thinking; you make impulsive, shortsighted decisions. When the CEO goes “offline,” strong emotions such as fear and anger take over, adversely coloring your view of the world.
When we continually force our brain into the stress response system, it can also contribute to inflammation in the brain.
Stress is no joke.
And the cumulative impact of it reminds us of the importance of effective stress management strategies for maintaining cognitive function and mental well-being.
So how do we know if the stress in our lives is starting to affect our health?
1. Persistent fatigue: Feeling consistently tired despite adequate rest may very well indicate the need to prioritize your well-being.
2. Increased stress levels: If stress is becoming overwhelming and starting to affect your daily functioning, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care and create a wellness toolbox for yourself.
3. Changes in sleep patterns: Disrupted sleep or insomnia can be signs that your well-being needs attention.
4. Lack of motivation: Persistent feelings of apathy or disinterest in activities may signal a need for self-care.
5. Physical symptoms: Unexplained physical issues, like headaches or digestive problems, may be linked to neglecting your well-being.
6. Difficulty concentrating: If focus and productivity decline, it may be time to prioritize your mental and emotional health.
7. Neglected self-care routines: If you find yourself consistently neglecting self-care practices, it’s a clear indicator to start prioritizing your well-being.
It’s important to remember that our brain, which is the leading conductor in our body’s orchestra, is not invincible to the toll of chronic stress.
If you’re reading this and are nodding your head, if this is speaking to you, it might be time to make a plan to course-correct your own well-being path. You can take charge of your stress, choosing harmony over dis-ease.
By recognizing the significance of stress management, you unlock the gateway to a healthier, more resilient you. The urgency of self-care if we neglect our own care it isn’t a question of if we will regret it, it’s a question of when. Remember that taming stress is not just a luxury but a necessity.
If you are finally ready to start avoiding stress and burnout, I would love to invite you to Busy To Bliss: The Self-Care Membership Community. Here, you will learn how to keep stress at bay, prioritize your self-care, and reclaim your time, energy and joy. Our community is epic – and waiting to embrace you with open arms.
Remember to be kind to yourself. Please practice grace and compassion as you navigate your wellness journey.
With love,
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]]>The post Embracing Your Inner Queen: A Valentine’s Day Ode to Self-Love appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>Ladies, gather ’round! I’ve got a little story for you.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s time for a heart-to-heart talk about the most important relationship you’ll ever have – the one with yourself. In a world that constantly bombards us with romantic gestures and lovey-dovey sentiments, I’d love us to shift the focus inward and celebrate the incredible women we are. So, grab your favorite cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s embark on a little journey together – a quick chapter book about your self-love.
You in?
A woman stands alone in a bustling city, her head held high, and a confident smile on her lips. Meet Emily, a go-getter who decided to treat herself to a solo Valentine’s Day adventure. She booked a table at her favorite restaurant, ordered the fanciest dish on the menu, and savored every bite. She even brought her latest read along with her, a true crime novel to dive in while eating.
As the evening unfolded, Emily realized that she didn’t need a plus one to create memorable moments. She was the leading lady in her own story, and the world was her stage.
Lesson of Chapter One: Embrace the solo symphony of self-love. Treat yourself like the queen you are.
Once upon a time in a small town, there lived a woman named Sophia. She spent years criticizing herself, focusing on flaws (that nobody else noticed). One day, she decided enough was enough. Sophia stood in front of her mirror and declared a self-love revolution. With each affirmation, she felt a surge of power. Her mirror transformed into a portal of positivity, reflecting the beauty that radiated from within.
She was no longer her biggest critic… she was becoming her own best friend.
Lesson of Chapter Two: Be your own fairy godmother. Speak kindly to yourself, and watch the magic happen.
In the vibrant city of Laughter, there lived a woman named Lily. Known for her infectious giggle, Lily decided she was going to stop taking herself so seriously – she decided that there was room to ease up on her intensity with which she saw every situation in her life. Lily decided to also embrace her quirks and imperfections with open arms.
Lily understood that life is a comedy, not a tragedy, and decided to find humor in the mishaps. From kitchen disasters to mess ups at the office, Lily decided to make lemonade from lemons, proving to herself that imperfections were the spice that made life worth living (and enjoying).
Lesson of Chapter Three: Life’s too short to take yourself too seriously. Laugh at your quirks, and the world will be a brighter place to live.
Amelia, a writer with a heart full of dreams, decided to pen a love letter to herself. In a world saturated with love notes addressed to others, she poured her emotions onto the paper, celebrating her triumphs, acknowledging her growth, and forgiving herself for the stumbles.
This act of writing a love letter to herself felt odd at first, but as she sealed the envelope with a kiss, Amelia realized that self-love wasn’t just a fleeting emotion but a lifelong commitment to nurturing the most important relationship of all – the one with herself.
Lesson of Chapter Four: Write your love story. Celebrate the journey, and let the love letter to yourself be an ongoing masterpiece.
I hope you enjoyed our little Valentine’s Day Chapter Book.
I’ve been writing Valentine’s Day posts since 2009. On my 15th year, I wanted to try something fun this year.
This Valentine’s Day, let’s start rewriting the narrative.
Instead of waiting for someone to bring us flowers, let’s plant our own garden of self-love. Whether you’re celebrating solo, starting to embrace your reflection in the mirror, laughing at your quirks, or penning a love letter to yourself, remember this – you are the leading lady of your own story.
Its time to start rewriting your own story.
Happy Valentine’s Day, my Queen.
P.S. If self-love is on your mind, journaling is a beautiful way to start manifesting it. Grab my Self-Care Journal to unblock transformative practices to nurture your mind, body and soul.
With love and admiration,
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]]>The post The Ins and Outs of 2024 appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>Hello, my friend.
We already know February is the new January, duh, so let’s think of February as a reset, shall we? January was just a practice month, lol!!
In honor of our reset, wink wink, I wanted to share my “Ins and Outs,” a list of 5 things I am calling in, and 5 things I am kicking out in 2024.
And then I’d love you to share yours below.
IN:
1. Self-care rituals for mental well-being – this is the YEAR of self-care! The numbers 2024 symbolize it! I’m all in.
2. Pursuing passions and embracing creativity – hobbies, creative events. I’m tapping into it all!
3. Healthy and nourishing relationships – I love making new friends and am enjoying bringing new people into my life who enrich it! Never too late or too old to make new incredible friends!
4. Continuous learning and personal growth – courses, webinars, in-person events, conferences, books, I am committed to be being the eternal student (even though I am also the teacher)
5. Mindfulness and gratitude practices – more white space in my days, more pausing, more down time, more appreciating the little things, more gratitude.
OUT:
1. Procrastination and time-wasting habits – I’m not really a procrastinator, but I want to get even more intentional with my calendar this year. Oh, and social media can be a big time suck, so I want to use it even more intentionally. I do loooove social media though and connecting with you, so I will continue to talk to you.
2. Negative self-talk and limiting beliefs – more grace, more love and compassion for me. If I make a mistake, I’m not staying stuck.
3. Toxic relationships that drain energy – bye bye fake friends or people that I don’t have a connection with. I ain’t forcing it. If you drain my energy and strength, I’m letting you go.
4. Fear of failure and taking risks – we all fuck up. When I fail, I will be mindful to FAIL FORWARD. Failure is part of the human condition. So therefore, less fear in trying. This is my year of going all in on what I want, and trimming the fat off of what I don’t.
5. Clutter, both physical and mental, creating space for simplicity – I will continue to build my sanctuary around me. Throwing out or giving away what I haven’t touched in a year to make more space for calm and serenity.
What’s on YOUR list?
If you’re ready for some hand holding on your reset, and a community to hold you accountable to your goals this year, I’ve got you.
Our Busy To Bliss Self-Care Community Membership is your haven, and waiting for you. Join us today for just $47 per month, with our 30-day cancel anytime policy!
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]]>The post Embracing Self-Care: 5 Reasons Why Women Struggle to Prioritize Themselves appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>In the intricate dance of life, we often find ourselves wearing numerous hats – caregivers, professionals, friends, and partners – gracefully navigating through the myriad responsibilities that come our way. Yet, in the midst of this whirlwind, the concept of self-care seems to be an elusive oasis, shimmering on the horizon for us, but often out of reach.
It’s not that we as women don’t recognize the importance of self-care; in fact, the desire to nurture and care for others often stems from an innate sense of compassion and empathy. However, there’s a widely held notion that women, in their admirable pursuit of balancing countless roles, tend to put their well-being on the back burner.
Today I dive into 5 things holding us back from prioritizing us… societal expectations, personal narratives, and cultural influences that contribute to this perceived struggle of self-care. More importantly, I hope that after they stare at you in the eye, you choose to celebrate the strength, resilience, and incredible capacity for love that you already embody, recognizing that prioritizing self-care is not an act of selfishness but a vital step towards your holistic well-being.
If you’re struggling with your self-care right now, you’re not alone.
I’ve got you. More at the end of this post.
Navigating these challenges I share below is an integral part of your self-care journey, and developing strategies to overcome these obstacles can significantly enhance your overall well-being and quality of life.
If you are ready to start prioritizing yourself in 2024, I’ve got you.
https://wellness.ericadiamond.com/busy-to-bliss-membershipI invite you to join me in BUSY TO BLISS: The Self-Care Community Membership. Where busy modern women who are tired of feeling stressed, overwhelmed and strapped for time, create sustainable self-care routines so they can live calm, abundant and balanced lives. We start February 1st!
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]]>The post BUSY TO BLISS: The NEW Self-Care Community Membership with Erica Diamond appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>Picture this: a self-care haven for busy women like us! Yep, I’ve whipped up the most magical new monthly experience for us called BUSY TO BLISS: The Self-Care Community. It’s your personal coach, your instant support squad, and the key to living your best life, month after month.
Why? Because life’s hectic, right? Juggling all the things can leave us feeling like a squeezed lemon. But guess what? This community is your oasis—a guilt-free zone to put yourself first so you can rock up to life’s challenges like a zen ninja.
Each month, you’ll get tailored self-care golden trainings designed to fit snugly into your busy schedule. And hold onto your hats, we’ll have LIVE coaching sessions! And LIVE interviews with high-profile celebrities too! Think of it as your monthly power-up, led by yours truly. Plus, LIVE Masterclasses, expert sessions, wellness hacks, recipes, meditations, yoga classes, discounts, and loads more—all aimed at making 2024 your year of epic self-care.
Oh, and did I mention I’m throwing in BusyToBliss.com course too?
My team and I have been busy cooking up the very best year for you – since the fall.
Here’s the most important piece: You’re my community, so if you join by our deadline of Sunday, January 28, you join as a Founding Member and it gets you the lowest-ever price, never to be raised. It’s like getting the best seats at a concert before anyone even knew the band existed!
Click the link to reserve your spot to Busy To Bliss Self-Care Community by January 28th, and voilà! You’ve snagged my Founding Member rate—just $37 monthly or $370 annually (that’s two months FREE!) before we go live on February 1st. Psst… the price only goes up from here, but you’ll be locked in at this sweet deal as long as you’re part of our tribe.
Join an incredible group of women who have already joined us, and get ready for: BUSY TO BLISS– an Exclusive Private Membership for Busy Women Who Are Looking for Training, Community and Coaching to Build the Life of Their Dreams
See you February 1!
Any questions? Ask away below! 2024 is going to be epic.
The post BUSY TO BLISS: The NEW Self-Care Community Membership with Erica Diamond appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>Yes, the third Monday in January, which was originally created as a PR push, has actually become a national event.
I have written about this day every year on our blog.
The post 20 Things To Do Today On Blue Monday ‘The Most Depressing Day of the Year’ appeared first on Erica Diamond.
]]>“As the Christmas memories fade, all we are left with is a hammered bank account, a bulge around the waist, gloomy weather and a return to work after weeks of partying. These factors all come together in a perfect storm for a single day believed to be the most depressing of the year which has been dubbed “Blue Monday.” – The Sun
Yes, the third Monday in January, which was originally created as a PR push, has actually become a national event dubbed Blue Monday.
I have written about this day every year on our blog.
I have a new stance this year. While I used to offer life coaching tips on fighting Blue Monday in previous years, I used Mental Health Awareness Day for that purpose more recently. And I really have to mostly agree with a statement that I read online, “Blue Monday is dangerously misleading. Those of us who live with depression know that those feelings aren’t dictated by the date. Implying that they are, perpetuates the myth that depression is just ‘feeling a bit down’, something that doesn’t need to be taken seriously. Blue Monday contributes to damaging misconceptions about depression and trivializes an illness that can be life threatening.” I think that’s pretty profound, and I will stick to that idea this year.
So to touch on Blue Monday, I have switched the theme to elevating your vibration and beating the ‘Winter Blues.’ Yes, that is my version today.
Here are 20 things you can do NOW to boost your serotonin if you are in fact, feeling those winter blues, and feeling a little down today, on the PR holiday Blue Monday.
1. Watch a funny movie
2. Create a great music playlist. If you want my playlist with a hodgepodge of my favorite songs, here you are!
3. Take a yoga class. How about mine? Click here for details.
4. Look through old pictures
5. Create or update your Bucket List
6. Take a hot bath with lavender essential oils. And then why not a hot cup of tea with a magazine to keep the good vibes flowing?
7. Buy yourself some fresh herbs to grow in your kitchen
8. Create your own vase of lemons and limes. It is one of my favorite pastimes. It was a gift for me, by me, and I’m still in love.
9. Watch an inspirational TED Talk
10. Reach out to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while and book a lunch or coffee date with them.
11. Sign up to volunteer in your local community
12. Bake a cake! Brownies anyone?
13. Take a moment to talk to a homeless person on the street today. I promise, it will bring enlightened perspective.
14. Start a gratitude journal – immediately write down 3 things you are actually grateful for today, January 15th, 2024. Feel free to download my new free self-care journal – it’s pretty rad!
15. Download a guided meditation app or podcast and start a daily meditation practice. It’s changed my life. I went to my doctor in the fall for my yearly checkup and my blood pressure is the lowest it’s ever been in my entire life. I credit it to my increased yoga and meditation practice.
16. Clean out and declutter a room in your home. Start with one room or even just a space – and then add some fresh flowers or candles to brighten it up. There is tremendous calm and enjoyment in decluttering. I decluttered my ottoman in my den, and I just love it. I sit there and read.
17. Take a 25 minute walk tonight – no excuses. No phone. Look up. Enjoy nature – even in the cold.
18. Invest in a weighted blanket – they are scientifically proven to regulate hormones for elevated mood and optimal sleep.
19. Do 40 jumping jacks! Yes, it’s like being a kid all over again. Hell, do it to loud music. It will get the blood pumping, and you WILL feel better. It instantly elevates your mood and activates various muscle groups in your body. The rigorous calisthenic movements help improve your stamina, are a great exercise for your cardiovascular system, and helps relieve stress.
20. HAVE SEX – YES, EVEN IF IT’S JUST WITH YOURSELF.
Happy Monday. Hopefully we can change it from blue to all different shades of happy.
Namaste,
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]]>The concept of self-care continues to transform and adapt, reflecting our evolving needs and lifestyles. As we step into 2024, the landscape of self-care is poised for significant innovation and advancement. From cutting-edge technologies to holistic approaches, the horizon of self-care trends presents a fascinating outlook for nurturing our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Today I’m examining 8 predictive trends that are anticipated to revolutionize how we prioritize and cultivate our self-care routines in the coming year. These trends promise to offer innovative ways to enhance our overall wellness. From the resurgence of ancient practices to the integration of modern technologies, these predictions highlight diverse self-care trends that cater to various aspects of our lives.
Let’s look at these self-care trend predictions set to influence and transform the way we nurture our minds, bodies, and souls in 2024. Maybe these trends just might redefine your self-care practices, empowering you to embark on a path of greater vitality, balance, and self-discovery in the year ahead.
1. Digital Detox Retreats
With the continuous integration of technology into daily life, there are expected to be an increased demand for retreats or experiences focused on digital detoxification. These retreats emphasize unplugging from devices, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that foster real-life connections and relaxation.
2. AI Medical Wellness and More Wearable Health Tech
Advancements in technology and health monitoring are expected to lead to AI-driven medical assessments as well as an increase in tech wearables. While Smartwatches have been tracking sleep, exercise and other health metrics for years now, 2024 is predicted to bring a new level of wearables, as well as AI-driven medical diagnostics– whereby AI will assess and diagnose more human medical conditions.
3. Nature Immersion Therapy
Recognizing the therapeutic benefits of nature, there is expected to be a surge in nature immersion therapy and programs. These will involve eco-therapy, forest bathing, and outdoor wellness activities aimed at reducing stress, improving mental health, and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. Think more outdoor cold plunges!
4. Energy and Sound Healing Modalities
Expect greater exploration and adoption of alternative healing practices like Reiki, sound baths, and energy healing for holistic well-being. I’m game! I have dabbled these past few years and they are life-changing for our nervous systems.
5. Increased Focus on Sleep Optimization Techniques
Increased emphasis on sleep quality is expected, with innovative sleep technologies and practices aimed at optimizing restorative sleep. 2024 is expected to be the year we reclaim rest!
6. Work-Life Integration Within Companies
We are expecting to see a shifting focus from work-life balance to work-life integration in 2024, promoting flexibility, boundaries, and wellness practices within professional environments.
7. Plant-Based Eating
The plant-based lifestyle trend is expected to surge forward in 2024, evolving from a mere dietary choice to a more comprehensive approach. The movement goes beyond food choices, extending its influence into fashion, beauty, and sustainability practices. As individuals prioritize their health and the planet’s well-being, the plant-based trend in 2024 will stand as a testament to the growing desire for a more mindful and harmonious way of living.
8. Increased focus on social connections
Following years of pandemic-induced isolation and mental health struggles, we are expected to see a surge return to in-person experiences. From a decease in virtual therapy sessions, to an increase in group sports and hobbies such as pickleball, people are craving more social connections and activities. We know the scientific benefits of social connection when it comes to self-care and well-being… studies consistently show that strong social connections are linked to better health outcomes and increased longevity.
Whether you’re seeking mindfulness techniques, revolutionary fitness approaches, or novel methods to prioritize mental health this year, these upcoming predicted trends are bound to inspire and guide your journey towards holistic well-being.
And if you’re looking to up-level your self-care in 2024, I’d love to invite you to my Self-Care Masterclass. Spend 60-minutes with me to reclaim your time, energy and well-being!
I’d love to know – what are you looking forward to this year when it comes to self-care?
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