Hello MPS Voices listeners,
I wrote this blog post to chat about a few 15 minutes self-care practices that you can easily implement in your busy life. Things may be feeling scary and quite a bit stressful right now. I know that I am definitely feeling that way. I’m a firm believer that taking 15 minute breaks can really make all the difference when it comes to resetting your brain. Research in particular from Cornell University suggests that taking breaks anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes when studying in particular can help to refresh your brain. I personally have been using these five self-care breaks in between my busy schedule of college classes as well as work to keep my brain functioning properly.
1) 15 minute walk break:
Taking some time to stretch your legs and walk always feels wonderful to me. I recommend listening to a podcast while doing this. There is an ever growing list of podcasts and places to walk. Even if it’s chilly right now, there are ways to get your walking in. I recommend walking around a hockey arena. The stadium is a great way to get in your steps without any cost.
2) 15 minute meditation break:
YouTube has a never-ending list of 15 minute meditation videos to check out. If meditation isn’t your thing, I recommend trying out some breathing exercises. Try breathing in for two seconds and out for another two. Then take it to three seconds then to four. Then take it down from four, to three, to two again. There are endless variations of breathing exercises, all at the tip of your finger using Google! This is definitely the most calming of the breaks on my list.
3) 15 minute journaling break:
I know that not everyone knows what to write when told to journal. I personally recommend writing about an object you see, an emotion you feel, or one thing you feel physically. Writing doesn’t have to be anything spectacular. Just you taking a second to let your mind or body process something right now is a great release!
4) 15 minute dance break:
I think that is one of my favorite ways to reset my brain. It’s ok to look silly or stupid. This is all about getting you to wiggle and move. You don’t need to be a good dancer or anything to enjoy dancing. Just put some tunes you like on and groove. Perhaps bust out the sprinkler or shopping cart dance moves.
5) 15 minute coloring book break:
This is the only break that I suggest that you would need to buy products to do. I recommend getting a coloring book that you like. The dollar store has some depending on when you stop in there. I personally have a cryptid themed coloring book that I pop open when I get the itch to color. I prefer crayons or colored pencils over markers as you don’t get any stains. (Just a little coloring tip for you!)
I just wanted to end out my post by saying as the world may feel scarier by the day, try the best you can to take breaks, feel your emotions, and seek support from your loved ones. Keep a routine and focus on what you can control. Sending love to anyone reading this.
-the big cheese out ❤️🔥⭐️❣️
