Start with Intention and End with Relaxation

Hello and welcome to MindfulMornings midweek motivation! - The complement to Sunday’s newsletter: Mindful Days and Restful Nights

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Midweek Motivation

Tip 1: Set Your Intention for the Day

(Sunday’s tip: Bring Mindfulness into Your Daily Life)

Starting your day with intention helps focus your mind and align your actions with your values.

• When you wake up, sit comfortably and take three deep breaths

• Ask yourself: "What quality do I want to bring to my day?"

• Choose a word or phrase that captures this quality (e.g., "patience," "joy," "open-heartedness")

• Repeat your intention silently three times or write it down. For example “Today I will be patient”.

You may like to try listening to this guided meditation to help you set your intention the first couple of times: Setting Intentions

Tip 2: Unwind with Psoas Muscle Stretches

(Sunday’s tip: Stretching Before Bed: A Simple Way to Improve Your Sleep)

The psoas muscle, often called the "muscle of the soul," can hold tension from stress or from sitting for long periods. Stretching it can help you relax and sleep better. The psoas is also critical for maintaining:

• Posture and Spinal Health

• Walking and Movement

• Core Stability

• Hip and Spine Mobility
  

You may like to incorporate these gentle stretches into your bedtime stretching routine:

1. Single knee to chest: Lie on your back with your legs straight. Bring your right knee into your chest, gently pulling on the back of your thigh to deepen the stretch. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch legs.

2. Reclined bound angle (reclined butterfly pose): Lie on your back, bring the soles of your feet together, and let your knees fall open.

   • Hold each stretch for 30-60 seconds, breathing deeply

   • Notice the sensation of release in your body

You can learn more about the psoas muscle here: The Essential Role of the Psoas Muscle

Something Interesting

This week we’ve been looking at Reese's Book Club. This book club by Reese Witherspoon offers a wonderful selection of books that celebrate women's stories and personal growth. Many picks explore themes of self-discovery and resilience – perfect for our MindfulMornings community!

Thanks for reading!

With gratitude,

MindfulMornings

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