Mindfulness with Children
The study of the self: Svadhyaya
Daily Happiness
It's all about being happy these days whether it's stuff we should buy to make us happy, to just being 'perfect' like the pictures in a magazine. The reality is we can't be happy all of the time and not everything can be perfect. For those that worry or suffer from anxiety, the day to day treadmill of life can be really tough. There's a book I love called Everyday Happy by Emma O'Connor. It's a tool to help you prompt yourself to do something that makes you feel good. It contains quotes, a checklist for positive actions like meditating or getting outside as well as space to make notes. It helps you clarify what you are grateful for and in turn manifests positivity. Whether it's an anxious child, teenager or adult, this book is a wonderful addition to helping someone through the river of life.
Foster kindess and gratitude through December
I was sent kindness Advent Calendars for adults and children by a friend and knew I had to share them with you. I fill my children's reusable advent calendars every year. Chocolate, the odd 20p coin, a tiny toy that will fit in the minute drawers! This year however I included something a bit different. On small pieces of paper I wrote something they should do with the sole purpose of fostering kindness and thoughtfulness. I have three physical boys who are kind at heart but at this time of the year are tired and fending off bugs. This is when kindness, gratitude and thoughtfulness gets forgotten. So here's what I wrote on some of the little pieces of paper and so far they have worked well: Give your brothers a hug; Give the dog a treat; Choose a toy to to donate to a charity shop; Help unload the dishwasher without being prompted; Put one of your advent coins in a charity box.
