Do you have a word or mantra that you want to carry you through in 2022? I have two words this year: Boundaries and Experiment.
Word(s) of the Year
Boundaries and Experiment as words of the year might seem at odds but they’re not.
I’ve learned over the year that I need to set boundaries. Not because people are steamrolling over me but because I need to do a better job at protecting my time, my resources, my mental bandwidth and my heart. That means less social media, less saying yes to things I don’t want to do (whether it’s work-related or personal) and saying yes to spending time with people who I care about and care about me.
Experiments because I want to stretch myself this year. I’m working on a full-length non-fiction book on how to calm our body and mind using our senses and backed by science. I want to try my hand at some creative pursuits. I’m completing challenges with friends (and even some strangers because, hey, why not?). I want to try new things that I’ve either postponed (because I didn’t have time, hence boundaries!) or something was holding me back.
Luckily I’m surrounding myself with close friends who are willing to be my rock, my sounding board, and my accountability masters. It’s humbling and wonderful when you find people who want to support you and help you find your best you.
Seeking Sources
Lastly, as I mentioned in last month’s blog post and sent via my email newsletter, I’m writing a book on how to calm our body and mind using our five senses and backed by science. I’m working on several chapters this month but as I’m looking ahead to chapters I plan to cover next month, I would love suggestions on either people who are practicing these activities or you have an expert who can speak on the science behind why these activities might be beneficial for our mind and body.
Sketching/drawing/doodling
Watercolor / painting
White noise
Use of floatation tank/floatation therapy
Massage
Aromatherapy
Gong meditation
If you don’t already receive my email, you can sign up for it here. This is how I hope to continue to request sources in the coming months as I continue to work on this manuscript. It’s due late spring so I need to stay focused and continue to write weekly.
Finally, because a few people have asked, I did complete my master gardener training last year! I finished my hours after completing the coursework in late 2020. Also, I am gardening this winter! With the help of some gardening friends, I’m trying my hand at winter sowing. Let’s see if they grow any seedlings to transplant come spring.
Happy new year, friends. Be well and stay safe.