Creating a Habit of Daily Reflection

Everyday we are bombarded with external distractions. From our glowing computer and cell phone screens to the constant conversations and information overloads
sent our way, it can be hard to find the space to go within. To take a few moments each day to set aside the daily distractions and to reach within
ourselves can be not only beneficial but also incredibly necessary.

While it may not be easy to make the time, creating a daily reflection practice can be one of the best things to incorporate into your life in the
new year. For instance, in a yoga class it is often common for a teacher to encourage the class to set an intention at the beginning of practice.
That intention is then brought back to mind at the end of practice as a means to reconnect to it and go from there. Maybe that intention has changed
a bit over the course of the practice, but it is a subtle way of getting you to go inward for a bit and connect to something.

So how can you get started?

1. Put it on your schedule.

Make a date with yourself, things you deem important enough to put on your calendar should be treated as a set appointment. So set aside a few minutes
every day and stick to it.

2. Keep it simple.

The easiest way to fail at a plan is to make that plan overly complicated. Instead of starting with the though of, “ I am going to sit quietly for
20 minutes every day”, why not start with 5 minutes? You must keep it manageable enough to make it a part of your life and not just something you
tried and gave up on.

3. Create a space.

Find somewhere in your home or office where you feel as though you can actually allow your mind to rest. Creating this space can actually help you
feel excited to take this time to yourself.

4. Track your progress.

Keeping a notepad or journal within the space you create for your quiet time can be a great way to see your progress or to note any changes. Taking
down a few notes about how you are feeling before you’re coming to your thoughts and then after can help you to see growth over time.

With 4 simple steps you can be well on your way to making an inner connection, discovering personal growth and creating positive change within. Going
even further here there are some serious benefits that come from a little daily self reflection.

Physically, mindfulness practice has been shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, can increase energy and aid in better sleep patterns. Emotional
and Mental benefits can be vast but have been shown to improve brain function, memory and decision making abilities, while also lowering stress,
irritability and anxiety.

So what do you have to lose? Give it a try. Perhaps a 60 day challenge would be helpful. See if you can find 5 minutes a day for the next 60 days to
practice a bit of self reflection. You will surely begin to notice a difference in no time.

If you need some extra help, try these awesome apps:

Stop, Breathe & Think, Calm or Mindfulness Training App

Written by : BaliSpirit