Soul Breaks: 15 Minutes Breaks for 7 Days
Day 1: Clear your mind of all your problems and just sit for 15 minutes. Listen to the clock tick, the refrigerator run, and the everyday sounds that your mind blocks out everyday. Breathe in and out slowly. Set a timer if you have to. Give yourself a full fifteen minutes. If you do this outside, feel the breeze and sunshine on your face. Listen to the birds. Watch a squirrel play in a tree. The idea is to just relax. Enjoy these moments for what they are: You being YOU.
Day 2: Call a friend and invite them for a coke, coffee or a cup of tea. Take these 15 minutes to catch up and refresh your friendship. Even a 15 minutes long distance call can renew your soul.
Day 3: Pull out an old pan and fill with hot water. Add some marbles, now soak your feet. Roll your feet around on the marbles and get an instant massage.
Day 4: Take a walk. Better yet, call a friend to join you on a walk. Talk about that new project, or brainstorm with a friend about anything. Walk around the park, the mall, your neighborhood. You will find this very energizing.
Day 5: Allow 15 minutes to read poetry or listen to your favorite music. Read a short story or go online and research for 15 minutes about something that interests you or something you wanted to know, but haven't had time to explore. Get those creative juices flowing.
Day 6: Do a random act of kindness. Going to the farmer's market? Ask the elderly neighbor if you can pick up some fresh fruit. Shovel the neighbor's walk or just be there for someone who needs you to listen. Giving really does feel good.
Day 7: Enjoy your 15 minutes in a hot, relaxing bath. Light candles. Put on some soothing music. That special bubble bath will soak your troubles away.
Now put these in a jar and shake them up and pull one out every week. If you only allow one soul break a week, you will be amazed at how good it makes you feel to pamper yourself and your soul.
By Debra Frick from Colorado Springs, Colorado
