9. Commit To Some Daily Practice
Many parents once had some sort of daily activity that calmed and uplifted them, but which fell by the wayside after having children. Either return to or start afresh something � even for just one minute a day � that feeds your soul and deepens your capacity to stand apart from the inevitable, endless ups and downs of your inner and outer worlds. Examples include:
� Journaling, creative writing
� Meditation, prayer, inspirational reading
� Time in nature (perhaps simply walking the dog)
� Playing or listening to music
� Doing arts or crafts
� Dance, yoga, tai chi
10. Consider A Personally Meaningful Spirituality
We�d be remiss if we didn�t mention what is for many the ultimate form of stress relief: a personally meaningful form of religious, spiritual, or philosophical awareness. Whether it�s cultivating a peaceful sense of the interconnectedness of all things, attending church or temple, or taking on a serious discipline of self-transcendence, you probably know in your heart what would be good for and your family in this regard. Trust that quiet inner voice, and let it carry you down the path that will quiet your mind and help your heart sing.
(Rick Hanson is a clinical psychologist, Jan Hanson is an acupuncturist/nutritionist, and they are raising a daughter and son, ages 11 and 14. With Ricki Pollycove, M.D., they are the authors of Mother Nurture: A Mother�s Guide to Health in Body, Mind, and Intimate Relationships, published by Penguin. You can see their website at www.nurturemom.com or email them with questions or comments at [email protected]; unfortunately, a personal reply may not always be possible.) |
