Using Our Senses
Today, I want to talk to you about something that is very personal and unique for each and every one of us. I want to talk to you about some of your favorite things. I highly recommend you open a new note on your phone (cause I am sure most of us don’t have a piece of paper and pen handy) and jot down a couple things that come to mind with the prompts I am going to give you. Take as much time as you need.
Let’s start simple. What is your favorite color? Write it down.
Next, take a moment and think about your favorite smells. Is it your partner’s perfume/cologne? Fresh cut grass? The ocean breeze? A favorite candle? Fresh washed sheets? Whatever comes to mind, write them down.
Now, write down some of your favorite sounds. Is it your wedding song? Your kids laughing? Waves lapping on the beach? The rumble of thunder?
For the next one, write down some tastes that make you happy. It might be chocolate or rich creamy ice cream. How about that first sip of your favorite fruity cocktail that takes you back to that amazing vacation?
Can you guess what I am going to ask about next? I want you to write down some textures that just make you feel cozy and comfortable. It might be that old sweatshirt. Maybe, that super soft blanket you cuddle under while on your couch or the cool, slippery and smooth feeling of silk.
Last, but not least, what are some things that when you see them, you just can’t help but smile? It is rainbows? How about sunsets over the ocean? Maybe, it is that great picture of your kids when they were little. Whatever it is, write it down.
Did writing these things down bring a smile to your face? I hope so!
This exercise isn’t just to make you smile now. The next time you are feeling stressed, unhappy or just not having a good day, I want you to find this list again and then go and re-experience some of the things that are on this list. I want you to go put on a piece of clothing in your favorite color, or, better yet, your favorite outfit in your favorite color. When you pop your favorite piece of chocolate in your mouth, I want you to let it melt in your mouth and savor it. Can you imagine how these things can help break you out of your foul mood and shitty day?
Bonus points if you start infusing these things into your daily life. Buy an essential oil in a flavor or smell that you love and diffuse it in your home. Put that favorite picture in a frame that you can place on your desk or in your locker. Buy pillows in your favorite color and put them on your bed so that every morning you get to start your day by looking at your favorite color.
I know this sounds pretty simple but sometimes it is the simple things that we forget to do especially in times of stress and upset. Sometimes, it is the simple things that can, for a moment, take you to a place of peace and happiness. Sometimes, it is the little things that can turn your frown upside down.
I would love to hear about some of your happy things. Share in the comments, on social media or drop me a line!
