Our five senses— sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch—are how our bodies obtain data about others and our surroundings. Bringing quiet attention to your five senses strengthens your perceptive abilities, and enhances your sensitivity to others and the world in which you live. You can use this 1- to 2-minute exercise as needed, but it will […]
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Empathy Exercise
Empathy – the ability to understand others’ feelings – is key to communication skills, emotional intelligence and deeper relationships. Anyone can develop a greater capacity for empathy. Begin with these simple steps: Step 1: Relax and focus on your breath Pay attention to your breath as you inhale and exhale, fully but easily, three times. Notice […]
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Survivor™: American Workplace?
Is your workplace beginning to mimic reality TV shows? If so, what can you do to take care of yourself? And what can—and should—you do to reconnect with your colleagues? Last week, one of my stress management clients likened her week to “a bad Survivor episode” This got me thinking about how TV reality shows […]
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Discipline vs. “Disciplinarianism”
One is helpful. One holds you back. And the line is ultra-fine. Here’s how to stay on its productive, non-sadistic side. Last month, in a New Year-themed column, I wrote about building and sustaining healthy new habits, and how some simple mindfulness techniques can help you do that. Of course, building and sustaining good habits also […]
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Distinguish self-care from self-indulgence
Caring for yourself isn’t about self-indulgence; it’s about self-forgiveness. This kind of forgiveness doesn’t depend on external circumstances or gaining a special pardon. It does, however, require a personal decision to let go of the past, to repair any damage and to learn valuable life lessons. Rather than being a form of self-indulgence, self-forgiveness can […]
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