Smile

Do you know that your body doesn't know the difference between a fake smile and a real smile??  That means that when you smile, your brain is releasing neurochemicals that actually elevate your mood.  I know, you don't always feel it immediately but it happens immediately and you can use your own smile as a wonderful stress reliever!!  It's true.  So next time you don't feel like smiling, smile anyway.  Walk around with a huge smile on your face and soon you'll be feeling great!!  (By the way, it helps your kids, too!)

Have a fabulous day!!

Have you ever hugged a tree??

My kids thought I was crazy when I went over and hugged a tree.  I found the biggest tree at the Audubon and went to hug it.  I invited my kids to do the same.  One refused, one reluctantly hugged it, and the third joyously hugged.

I told them that this tree has been around for hundreds of years and has gathered the wisdom of the ages and by hugging it, we can reconnect to that wisdom.  (Okay, my four year old had no idea what I was talking about, I admit it.)  But when asked them what they felt when hugging the tree, they felt good.  They felt love.  They felt a connection to nature that they hadn't experienced before.  Yes, my nine old also said he felt really silly but in a good way.  If mom can let go of what people might think and go hug a tree, then he can, too!!

Try it and let me know what you think.

Have an awesome day!

Spend some time in nature with your children

If you can spend some time with your children outside, away from the TV, computer, and phone, you will benefit not only from the time together but also from nature. Just being in nature and in the fresh air has a way of lifting our spirits and rejuvenating us!  Many time we don't realize the positive effect of just being nature.  That doesn't mean you need to travel to the mountains or the ocean either : )

You can benefit from going to a park, walking on tree-lined street, or if it's feasible going on some type of nature walk.  Look up at the color of the sky and just take it in and enjoy it.   Yes, even if it is cloudy and grey or raining.  It really is magnificent!!  When you are breathing in, imagine pulling the air from a place high up in the sky, filled with love and peace.

Have a spectacular day!!

What are you going to do today??

Many schools are on vacation this week.  What do you have planned to do with your children?  It doesn't really matter what you do as long as you're giving them your full attention.   Giving your children that undivided attention actually builds their self-esteem and makes them feel special and loved.

Too often we are distracted with work or other obligations and don't actually give our children our full attention.  In fact, not much gets our full attention since we are trying to do several things at once!  Take time today (even if it's only a few minutes) to really give your full attention to your children.  Take a few minutes to really quiet your mind and give yourself some attention, too!!  Enjoy the day!