The first duty of love is to listen.

Welcome to MindfulMornings. We hope you’re looking forward to the week ahead! 

A little bit of housekeeping before we get into the usual newsletter…  

We are starting a short companion email that will be sent in the middle of the week. It will:  

• Provide motivation and additional advice to help implement the tips of the week. 

• Include a short section on the most interesting thing we have been loving, using, or reading during the week.

We hope you’ll find this companion newsletter helpful and enjoyable, but, if you don’t want to receive it, please reply, “No thanks” to this email. 

Here are 2 quotes, 2 tips, and 1 question to help with your mornings this week.

2 Quotes

1. "The most basic of all human needs is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them." – Ralph G. Nichols 

    

2. "The first step in non-violence is that we cultivate in our daily life, as between ourselves, truthfulness, humility, tolerance and loving kindness." - Dalai Lama 

2 Tips

1) Master Empathetic Communication

Why: We all want to be understood and accepted. By practicing active listening and responding with empathy, we create mutual respect. This approach helps prevent misunderstandings, defuses potential conflicts, and fosters a sense of connection with others. 

How: To be empathetic towards others, we must first be understanding of ourselves. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Begin your day with positive self-talk. We like the quote/affirmation:

When you get the opportunity to spend time with others, practice empathy and active listening by following these steps. 

1. Start by asking questions and letting the other person speak. Put the phone away or on ‘Do Not Disturb’.  Focus on understanding what they are saying, rather than thinking of your response.  

    

2. Repeat the last three (or most important) words they’ve said to show you are listening and understanding. This will encourage them to continue talking so you can better understand their view.

    

3. Imagine yourself in their situation. Try to understand their feelings and what is fueling their feelings.  

    

4. Demonstrate empathy by stating their emotions back to them. Begin with one of the below phrases: 

    

   1. It sounds like .... 

   2. It seems like .... 

   3. It looks like ..... 

    

   Then state what you believe they're feeling. This approach softens what you say and, if you are wrong, they’re less likely to be upset.  

    

5. Avoid telling them what to do or providing advice, unless they specifically ask for it. They most likely just want to be heard.  

    

6. Do your best to remain calm and patient, even if you disagree. If you notice your emotions rising, take a deep breath before responding. 

By incorporating these practices into your interactions throughout the day, you'll be setting a foundation for more peaceful and empathetic communication. We strongly encourage you to try this and see how your family, friends, and co-workers respond.

2) Cultivate a Tranquil Space

Why: Our surroundings significantly affect our mental state and behavior. A calm, harmonious space reduces stress and promotes a sense of well-being. Waking up to this environment sets a positive tone for the day, making it easier to keep a calm mindset as challenges present themselves.

How: Start by making your bedroom a peaceful environment. If you enjoy the process and results, move on to the rest of the house. Follow the steps below.

1. Declutter your space. Our newsletter – In letting go you find freedom - provides some resources to help with this step. Start by spending 5-10 minutes each morning on reducing clutter.  

    

2. Incorporate soft, soothing colors in your bedding, curtains, lighting, or decorative items. We like soft browns and colors that reflect a sunrise - as you might be able to tell from this newsletter 😊.

    

3. Nature offers a calming presence. Bring plants into your room to boost your mood and enhance the air quality. The New Plant Parent: Develop Your Green Thumb and Care for Your House-Plant Family is a great book to take indoor gardening to the next level.  

    

4. Consider using aromatherapy such as scented candles, or an essential oil diffuser to create a peaceful aroma. Lavender or chamomile are calming scents to try. If you want an invigorating scent for your morning, we recommend lime.  

    

5. Play soft background music to create a serene atmosphere. We often change what we listen to; this week was Jack Johnson.  

    

6. Minimize electronic distractions by keeping your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ during your morning routine. 

Once you have finished refining the surroundings within your bedroom, the next step may be creating a dedicated, peaceful corner for meditation or quiet reflection. You can use the same steps as above when preparing this space.  

1 Question

• How can you cultivate more patience in challenging situations this week? 

Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoy your week.

With gratitude,

MindfulMornings

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