Sparkle & Flourish

Blog

  • Ninety seconds…

    Ninety seconds…

    It’s good to know that nobody or situation can “make” us do or feel anything. When the trigger or strong emotion comes, we can be with it (not suppress it.) We can choose to ride that wave for just 90 seconds and it will pass. Yes, it is uncomfortable, but it is 90 seconds y’all. Just 90 seconds.

    Read more about the here

    I love this post on Reddit: 

    “Ok, I feel <name of unpleasant feeling> coming on. Of course it’s unpleasant and I wish I didn’t have to feel it. This feeling can only last about 90 seconds. Instead of trying to avoid this feeling, do I think I can handle 90 seconds of it until it passes? Yes, I think I can handle that.”   Read more here


    Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

  • Rewire your brain with gratitude!

    Rewire your brain with gratitude!

    You can rewire your brain by adding gratitude to your self-care ritual. Practicing gratitude enhances self-care, while self-care facilitates gratitude. It’s a lovely cycle! By actively training our brains to embrace gratitude, we strengthen the neural pathways that spark feelings of appreciation. It’s a cost-free way to experience more joy. #selfcaremonth #gratitude #neuroscience

    Read more here: https://www.byrdie.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude-5191622

    Photo by KT Likes Coffee on Unsplash

  • Somatic Therapy? What’s That?

    Somatic Therapy? What’s That?

    At Sparkle & Flourish, we believe that somatic therapy (as well as soul care) are keys to living a fulfilled and joyful life. So what it somatic therapy? Glad you asked 🙂

    We have all heard about talk therapy — talking through issues to try to get insight on what is bothering us. Somatic therapy is different. It is a type of therapy that works with the body first and then the mind to release trauma and heal from it. It is becoming more mainstream because it has been proven effective in treating several mental health issues by using body-centered practices like breathing exercises, movement, and touch to treat anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

    Read the full article at theSkimm to learn more about the different forms of somatic therapy and how you can practice it.

    Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

  • Step outside and step up your well-being!

    Step outside and step up your well-being!

    According to  this article, spending time in nature benefits our physical and mental health. Research has shown that being in nature can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mood. Additionally, spending time in nature can boost creativity and enhance cognitive function.

    So the next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider going outside and smelling the flowers. Your mind and body will say thank you.

    Read the full article on Real Simple

    #naturetherapy #mentalhealth #stressawarenessmonth

    Photo by Tony Ross on Unsplash

  • Short circuit your stress

    Short circuit your stress

    We all have stress to varying degrees in our lives, but that doesn’t mean we have to let it take over our day. Forbes recently published an article that highlights five science-backed methods to reduce stress in the moment. These methods include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, mindfulness meditation, and physical exercise. Incorporating these techniques into your daily routine can help you manage stress and improve your overall well-being.

    Check out the 5 techniques in this Forbes article. I like all five! Taking a walk through the neighborhood while listening to some Earth, Wind & Fire works wonders for me 🙂 #stressawarenessmonth #mentalhealth #musicislife

    Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash