Reading opens up horizons, inviting us to view the world differently. It also stimulates creativity and supports critical thinking. A study by the University of Sussex (England) demonstrated that 6 minutes of reading are enough to reduce stress and ease tension.
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I set aside some quiet time to read an inspiring text.
When days are long and busy, your face reflects the internal tensions you may feel – whether physical or emotional. When intentionally softening the facial muscles, especially around the eyes, you apply a brief but effective self-relaxation practice.
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I take a moment every day to relax my facial muscles.
While you might believe that you are saving time by skipping your lunch break, you may end up less efficient, resulting in fatigue and loss of concentration. Taking a lunch break away from your desk forces your body to move and clears your mind. You are likely to be more productive in the afternoon!
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I spend at least half an hour for lunch, away from my desk.
Excessive self-criticism activates the sympathetic nervous system, which raises our level of stress hormones. This can undermine self-confidence and paralyse action. Conversely, self-compassion activates a soothing parasympathetic response. Acting with self-compassion leads to more productivity and inner peace.
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I am as kind to myself as I would be to a good friend.
Chances are your desk or your computer would benefit from some freshening! Research indicates that a clean desk increases efficiency; it helps to keep your attention focused. Tidying up can also reduce feelings of stress, confusion or pressure.
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I take a minute every evening to tidy up my desk or my computer.
Studies suggest that smiling, forced or not, has a positive impact on your mood, lowers the strain and even brightens the mood of those around you! Research also indicates that people who smile most are perceived as more trustworthy than people without smiling facial expressions.
So here is a resilience practice we invite you to cultivate this week:
I take several opportunities every day to put a smile on my face.