We can all agree that keeping our health in check during these tough economic times can be a significant source of stress for your mind and body.  But there are simple, inexpensive ways to alleviate some of the stress.   Every now and then, turn off the news and turn on the music. Dance or go for a walk, or have background music as you move throughout the house, and during these moments, don’t try to solve the world’s problems. In fact, try to take a break even from personal concerns.    Remember, to ask yourself several times during the day, 'Am I focusing on my breathing?'  and then ask yourself, 'Am I breathing correctly?' You'll find that many times, we're holding our breath, or not focusing on breathing in the moment.   Try this simple breathing exercise:  Relax your shoulders, think taller, pull your shoulders back - then slowly release your shoulders.  Our posture now - will help our posture years from now.

Breathe in, fill your stomach muscles with air, this is not the time to try to hold your stomach muscles in for the flat tummy, let your tummy fill up with air as you breathe in, then as you exhale, empty the air out. Slow, precise breathing is very relaxing and quite therapeutic.   Here are a few more tips for Your Daily Dose of Health and Wellness   Take a break from thinking about major items, or trying to solve them. It relaxes your brain, and in turn, your brain tells your muscles to relax. It’s almost as if you are telling your body, it’s okay to relax.   Your muscles will thank you, your heart will slow down, and thank you too. After a few minutes, you’ll be amazed, your spirit will give you a thought, that leads you to the answer you were seeking earlier.   Light a candle, early in the morning, or go for an early morning walk.  I’m a big believer in aromatherapy. Whether you go for the walk or choose the essential oil of your choice, your moment of focusing on the air you're breathing is vital to your daily dose of health and wellness.   Your morning shower or evening bath can be your aromatherapy session for the day. Lavender is soothing, and helps to relax, good for sleeping, but also good for warding off stressful thoughts throughout the day.  My all-time favorite is gardenia. Find what works for you. Surround yourself as much as possible with positive people, it keeps you positive and focused. If you find yourself in the midst of negative thinking people, try to remove yourself from the situation. If that's not possible, take just a minute to pray for them. Really, it works when you pray for someone else to find peace. You will find yourself surrounded by peaceful inner thoughts.   When you pray for someone else, it's amazing, but the endorphines in your brain will give you that "feel good" feeling. That's the scientific description of how God's Spirit will lift your spirit, and make you feel good.  Laugh. Laughter is the best medicine. Enjoy your sense of humor and you'll realize that you're not thinking about what it was that was causing you stress. Call a friend, go for a walk with them and just talk and walk. Remember, this is the friend who is closer than a brother or sister, according to Kipling. Someone you can trust.

Several things will happen when you call a friend and enjoy a relaxing walk: You'll enjoy each other's company and re-discover things you have in common,   You'll realize that your situation is not unusual, and has a solution,   You'll both get your dose of vitamin D, and   If you walk in the morning, you'll have lots of energy and believe it or not, if you walk in the evening, you'll have a good night's sleep. Another source of reducing stress, get plenty of rest and don't forget to drink water, it's the best source of natural skin care.

 Your journey to serenity and inner peace will begin......
                                           when you relax your mind, center your body and nurture your spirit.

Follow your Passion..... Realize your dreams.   
                                                                                                                                   

Serenity With Denise
Email: serenitywithdenise@gmail.com
Telephone: 202 285-9026 

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