#Daily Meditation Routine

[compassionmattersmost]

Developing Ekagrata, or One-Pointed Concentration: An Essential Skill in Meditation

Developing ekagrata, or one-pointed concentration, is an essential skill in meditation that enhances mental focus and facilitates deeper states of awareness. Here are some steps and techniques to cultivate ekagrata: Choose a Focus Point: Select an object of focus, such as the breath, a mantra, a candle flame, or an image. This will be your pratyaya, the object to anchor your attention. Create…

[starksolid]

Mastering the Art of Guided Meditations

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this blog post may be affiliate links. This means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase or sign up for a service through those links. However, please rest assured that I only recommend products or services that I personally use and trust. Your support through these affiliate links helps me continue to provide valuable…

[thechthonicherbalist]

✨🌌 Some Cozy Quiet Time 🌌✨

Slowly thawing out of the freeze and shock last year has left on me, I'm starting to reclaim my own peace, time and schedule. This week? I started to read a graphic novel on the myth of Psyche and Eros!

There's nothing better than to have some time to yourself, cozied up in a fort with blankies and pillows on the floor (I also had my cuddly plushies with me, not in the picture. 😂) and notably reaching a calmer era in your life, after a long time of stress, pain and big fears. I also started to set up my own writing space again on Notion, after Evernote decided it's formerly free services as a well-sortable index and writing space will suddenly cost 100 bucks in 2023. 💀 I never had the chance and peace to go looking for another program to migrate to and learn how to use it back then. On a nicer note, the graphic novel I picked is a book on a Hellenic myth and I have 2 more to go, among them the story of Daedalus and Icarus. As a Hellenic Pagan, I'm immensely looking forward to this. <3

(Rambling below the cut lol.)

Things take their time because I had to take an extended break due to a surgery that had some complications and then people... did things. As a consequence to these things, my mental and chronically impaired physical health spiraled, worsened and finally collapsed for over a year as a result. Things were not harmless.

Prior to that it was my daily routine to art, write or read for at least an hour daily, since I escaped my abusive childhood home in 2016 and established a life for myself that gave me the freedom and safety to do so for the first time in my life. You have to understand that as an autistic trauma survivor who is prone to slipping into severe depression and has autoimmune disease that is prone to flaring due to stress induced cortisol overload, these things are absolutely crucial for both my physical and mental health. Being able to do my art and writing, helps me ground myself, maintain a routine and self-express and busy my mind in a way that is calming and healing to me. I enter a deep and carefully created safe internal universe, whenever I access my creative side. It's complex, but if you want to get psychological, it has a lot to do with inner child healing and rewiring the nervous system. I built the life required to remain healthy and have these structure and passions from scratch all by myself. It is not possible to take this from me by mistake or unintentionally. You'd have to exert intense and prolonged force to take this from me, as I have very strong, protective and well-communicated boundaries around this in place. What started at the end of 2023 and continued through 2024 completely disrupted my safety and peace and destroyed my ability to access the safe internal spaces that harbor my creativity and the inner universes created by it, along with many other things.

Despite this disruption, I've been recovering a tiny bit from the shock and terror I experienced at the end of 2023 and during 2024, in these past months and this week is the first time I've started to thaw from the freeze of a massive autistic and trauma-dissociative shutdown I've been stuck in since at least January 2024. Monday was the first day on which I've managed to make happy and productive plans for myself, set up a schedule, install reminders and get some things done again. Reached for a book and actually submerged in the story, even if it's "only" a graphic novel (my ability to read has been impaired since 2011...). I also got back in touch with my previous writing projects and felt happiness discussing plans and ideas with other writers for the first time in a long long while. There was an attempted interference there. On a nicer note, the graphic novel I picked is a book on a Hellenic myth and I have 2 more to go, among them the story of Daedalus and Icarus. As a Hellenic Pagan, I'm immensely looking forward to this. <3

[guardianmonae32]

Why do I meditate daily? 🧘🏾‍♀️Because it helps me feel connected and grounded first thing in the morning! Thinking about getting into meditation? Ask your questions below! ⬇️ 

[intertwinedquotes]

“Is pain all the knowledge, or is it knowing nothing at all?

I’ve traveled the world without catching a flight; my soul reaches places you’ll never find on a map.

Meditation is the medicine nobody ever buys.

You’ve been working two jobs, studying online, cooking what you think is the best food for your mind— but it’s never enough.

You feel it deep inside, a void you can’t even define.

You can’t heal the wounds without them turning into scars.

But where is the cut?

Where is the knife?”

- i n t e r tw i n e d Quotes.

[figuring-out-witchiness]

Witchy Morning Routine

Something I'm trying to bring more into my practice is intentions and mindfulness which is sometimes hard as a working city witch.

To help I created a morning routine to set intentions and ground myself before rushing off to work.

First I wake up earlier now. I want to be intentional with my actions in the morning which means I need the time to do it. So I make sure I have 2 full hours to do my process.

I like to start the day by airing out the house. I open all the windows to expel and stale negative energy and allow the sun to bring in it's cleansing rays

Then I do a quick mindfulness meditation and some light yoga/stretching. Before my practice I state my intentions for the day and for my practice. When I do my stretching I have no set routine, I listen to my body and do what feels right.

After I shower and do my skincare. Reciting positive affirmations to infuse the positive energy into my skin and wash away negativity. I also write a personal sigil in lotion on my skin.

Last thing I do before leaving is eat. As an aspiring kitchen witch I understand the importance of fueling your body and trying to use natural local ingredients. If I don't have time to fully cook a meal I still make sure I have time to sit and eat something quicker. Like boiled eggs (I have pre prepared) and bread.

I pick cute plates and cups just things that bring me and extra bit of happiness. And I make sure I focus on the food and visualize it strengthening and fueling my body.

I don't always drink tea because I do believe in the Cantonese principles of leng and yeet (basically different foods have different hot and cold properties that can imbalance your body) so if it's time for period I will switch to hot water instead.

When I'm on my commute I like to look at the nature around me. When walking I like to see the plants and absorb the sun and focus on how my body feels in the moment and how the environment effects me

And on my commute I try to also be in the moment. I know it's hard on the train but I avoid using my phone and just have time to my own thoughts or just focus on the environment around me

This is pretty much my daily routine. I wanted to share in case there's any other city people out there wondering how to make their practice work for their own lives like me. At the end of the day we do what works for us and practice in ways we can.

As always advice is welcome. Stay witchy everyone!

[elizevanniekerk]

The Subtle Art of Finding Joy in the Mundane

In the dizzying whirlwind of our modern lives, with its notifications, deadlines, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to overlook the little things. Our quest for big achievements, exotic vacations, and grand celebrations often overshadows the understated moments that make up our daily lives. Yet, there's a profound beauty and solace in the mundane, waiting to be discovered.

The Magic of Morning Rituals

Consider the simple act of brewing your morning coffee or tea. The aromatic scent that wafts through your kitchen, the warmth of the mug against your palms, and that first invigorating sip – it's a ritual that beckons a new day, filled with possibilities. It's not just about the caffeine kick, but the quiet moments we grant ourselves before the day's chaos ensues.

Nature's Everyday Theater

Look out of your window. Even if you're in the heart of a bustling city, nature is putting on a daily show. The radiant hues of a sunrise, the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, or even the rhythmic patter of rain against the windowpane. These are nature's gentle reminders of its cyclic rhythm, urging us to pause and sync our own rhythms with the world around us.

The Joy of Daily Tasks

Believe it or not, there's a meditative quality in mundane chores. The rhythmic act of washing dishes, the soft hum of a vacuum cleaner, or the therapeutic act of decluttering can be grounding experiences. They tether us to the present moment, offering a break from the incessant noise in our heads.

Conversations and Connections

Everyday joy is also about connections. A brief chat with a neighbor, a spontaneous phone call to a friend, or even the simple act of greeting your local grocery store cashier can forge bonds. It's in these fleeting interactions that we find a shared human experience.

Rediscovering Your Space

Sometimes, joy is about rediscovery. Re-read a favorite book, revisit old photographs, or rearrange your furniture. Familiar spaces and objects can offer new perspectives and insights when looked at with fresh eyes.

Wrapping Up

The art of finding joy in the mundane is essentially about shifting our perspective. It's about appreciating life's quiet moments and finding depth in simplicity. It's recognizing that while milestones and grand celebrations are significant, there's immeasurable joy to be found in the spaces in between.

In the words of novelist Alice Walker, "Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise." Life's everyday surprises, no matter how small, are the threads that weave the beautiful tapestry of our existence. So, let's cherish them.

[anshulbohre]

Sound Healing and Its Impact on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

“Doctors Are Amazed by the Benefits of Sound Therapy – Find Out Why!” Sound has been used as a healing tool for centuries across various cultures, from Tibetan singing bowls to Indian mantras and Aboriginal didgeridoos. In modern times, sound healing is gaining popularity as an alternative therapy for improving mental and emotional health. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression,…

[coffeebreakwithjay]

How Coffee Changed My Morning Routine for the Better

My passion for coffee hasn’t just been about enjoying a drink. It all began in childhood, during those quiet mornings watching my uncle at the breakfast table. He’d sit there, legs crossed, savoring a steaming cup, and that simple act seemed so profound. The kettle’s whistle, followed by the rich aroma of freshly made coffee, was almost like a special ceremony.

Those moments sparked something inside me. I didn’t really understand it back then, but it was like witnessing a tiny piece of art being created every morning. My uncle seemed completely immersed in this routine, exhibiting a level of beautiful and mysterious appreciation for a young mind like mine. This image began my lifelong journey into understanding coffee, not just as a beverage but as a full experience.

Kids often find nostalgia in everyday rituals; for me, it was no different. The sensations — seeing steam swirl upwards, smelling that comforting aroma — combined with the warm family connection. It rooted in me an appreciation for small yet significant indulgences.

These childhood mornings did more than entertain me; they sowed the seeds of a ritualistic enjoyment that later transformed my routines. If there’s a takeaway here, it’s to embrace those mundane yet magical moments from our past. They can shape likes, dislikes, and passions that resonate throughout life. Remember, sometimes the simplest memories hold the most profound life lessons.

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE: WHY MORNINGS MATTER

Mornings have this unique quality; they kind of set the tone for the rest of the day. When I finally realized this, everything about how I spent my mornings changed. It wasn’t about filling time until I fully woke up — I wanted my mornings to count.

Once I started allotting time for a good coffee, I noticed that it became more than a habit. It was a purposeful daily check-in with myself before tackling the day’s demands. In those moments, I plan, reflect, and find clarity. My coffee mug transformed into this little symbol of meaningful beginnings.

The science backs it up, too. Productive morning routines are linked to increased focus and mental health throughout the day. Starting with a clear mind and a focused mindset really does contribute to greater productivity.

Coffee’s not just there to tackle morning grogginess. It’s more of an anchor, grounding the mind while giving the senses something to enjoy. It’s like having a sidekick to accompany me through those initial thoughts and plans for the day.

For anyone unsure about mornings, consider this an invitation to redefine those sleepy hours. Try incorporating elements that matter to you — whether it’s coffee, tea, or some quiet reflection time. It’s about discovering what brings you peace and builds motivation right when the day starts.

CREATING A SEAMLESS ROUTINE: INTEGRATING COFFEE WITH PURPOSE

Getting a handle on morning sluggishness was something I had to figure out. Mornings used to feel like a mad dash, but I found that by intentionally weaving coffee into my routine, everything started to fit into place.

Turning the coffee-making process into something mindful became a game changer. Instead of rushing through, I placed emphasis on each step, from choosing the beans to watching the coffee brew. This small ceremony gave me a moment to pause and focus on what truly mattered, creating a sense of calm amid the morning hustle.

Momentum is everything. With coffee as a central part of my routine, I found moving from one task to the next easier. The caffeine kick helped, but it was paired with an intentional start that energized both body and mind.

Balance is key, though. It’s about enjoying that caffeine boost without going overboard. A well-considered portion meant more than just avoiding the jitters; it helped me appreciate each cup fully.

For anyone looking to smooth out their mornings, I recommend designing your routine around what genuinely energizes you. Whether it’s a hot drink, a few minutes of meditation, or some stretches, find that anchor that ties the beginning of your day together with intention and clarity.

COFFEE AS A CATALYST FOR PERSONAL GROWTH AND CREATIVITY

Coffee’s been more than just a morning perk for me; it’s become a kind of creative booster, fueling personal growth and creativity in ways I hadn’t imagined. Something about that initial sip sparks ideas and thoughts, almost like coaxing a sleepy brain awake to fresh possibilities.

Research indicates caffeine can enhance cognitive function, helping brainstorming sessions take flight. I’ve found it’s particularly helpful when trying to break through creative blocks. It’s not just the caffeine — it’s the ritual that brings mental clarity, sharpening focus when it’s needed the most.

I’ve come to cherish coffee as a constant companion during writing sessions. It keeps me engaged, acting almost like a co-pilot steering through early drafts and edits. Some of my best ideas have surfaced in these connected moments with my cup.

Beyond its benefits for solitude, coffee has a way of connecting people. Coffee breaks foster moments of sharing and collaboration, becoming social rituals that inspire collective creativity. It nurtures discussion, and in those exchanges, it’s common for new concepts to emerge.

Whether writing at home or collaborating with others, coffee consistently plays a part in my creative process. For those exploring their own creative outlets, consider what energizes and lifts your ideas. Let that element drive your creativity and growth, whether it's coffee or something else.

EXPLORING THE SCIENCE: COFFEE’S HEALTH BENEFITS

Coffee isn’t just about taste or tradition; it comes packed with several health benefits worth chatting about. Getting into the biology of coffee’s impact sheds light on why many of us consider it a go-to booster.

Antioxidants are one of the biggest perks of your daily cup. They help fight free radicals in the body, contributing to better health and potentially lowering the risk of certain diseases. It’s eye-opening to realize how much good a daily habit can do beyond just waking us up.

Then there’s caffeine, which is kinda the star of the coffee show. It enhances alertness and can improve concentration. But it’s important to manage the quantity and keep it balanced to avoid unnecessary jitters or anxiety. Get it right; caffeine can provide that extra push exactly when needed.

There’s also been debate about coffee’s effects on physical health. Recent studies indicate that moderate coffee consumption is associated with certain protective health benefits like lower risks of specific conditions, ranging from heart disease to specific types of cancer. It’s reassuring to see science backing up something many of us love, offering enjoyment and wellness.

When I think about these benefits, it makes me appreciate my morning cup even more. For those on the coffee journey, exploring its health aspects can add depth and satisfaction to each brew, knowing it contributes positively to mind and body.

A FINAL REFLECTION: EMBRACING THE COFFEE RITUAL

Coffee has truly woven itself into the fabric of my mornings, bringing about subtle yet significant shifts in lifestyle and productivity. That simple daily ritual is more than just brewing a drink — it’s become a personal ceremony that grounds each day with purpose and intention.

Reflecting on how far this habit has come from those childhood memories at my uncle’s table, coffee is not merely a tradition I carry forward but a celebration of past moments intertwined with present routines. Those little acts of making coffee honor family connections, bridging gaps between generations through shared experiences.

Coffee is now much more than just a beverage to me. It’s a part of how I start my day, find creativity in my work, and connect with others around me. There’s an appreciation for its continuity — a comforting reminder that even in the hustle, there are pockets of peace and clarity.

Consider what resonates with you for anyone looking to enhance their mornings or find a little more joy in daily routines. Whether it’s coffee or another cherished habit, it’s about nurturing those rituals that set the tone for a fulfilling and energized day. It’s all about finding what works for you and letting it guide you toward greater well-being and self-discovery.

[drmilindcom]

5 Yoga Poses to Stay Healthy in 2025 : स्वास्थ्य के लिए योगासन

5 Yoga Poses to Stay Healthy 1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose) | ताड़ासन Benefits: Improves posture and balance Strengthens muscles and joints Enhances mental focus and stability Helps in increasing height in growing children Stimulates digestion and relieves tension in the body How to Do: Stand straight with feet together and arms by your sides. Inhale and raise your arms overhead while…

[jesse-ben-israel]

Simplify Your Life with these 5 AMAZING Wellness Hacks

5 Wellness Hacks to Simplify Your Life and Boost Your Well-being Join me as I take on the challenge of simplifying my life using these five amazing wellness hacks and see if they really make a difference. When it comes to wellness, we all know how hard it can be to prioritize our health and self-care when life gets busy. We’ve all been there—stuck in a rut, feeling drained, and struggling to…

[viraltrendsspot]

✅ Daily Motivation - For When You Feel Stuck

Every step forward, no matter how small, is an act of courage. You don't have to make massive changes to be making progress. Focus on one tiny improvement today. That's enough.

[girlwithrituals]

GLOW UP GUIDE FOR 2025⠀

READ: On average, it takes more than 2 months before a new behavior becomes automatic — 66 days to be exact. And considering that 2025 is precisely these many days away, why not start with our glow up plan already?

Physical Glow Up-

BODY

— 5-10K steps a day.

— 7-8 hours of sleep.

— workout everyday for 1 hr atleast- yoga/stretching/pilates/cardio/lifting weights. a workout may take one hour, but your mood will be boosted for the next 12 hours.

— posture training.

— sunlight exposure after waking up for at least 10 minutes.

NUTRITION

— 2-3 liters of water every day.

— limit your caffeine intake.

— avoid sugars as much as you can.

— high protein diet, pre and probiotics.

— more fruits and veggies (+ green smoothies if you like).

— no junk/processed food/trans fat.

— no eating after 8 pm.

SKINCARE

— be clear on your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive).

— once you're clear, use these accordingly- cleanser, toner, targeted serum, eye cream, moisturizer, sunscreen (≥50 spf).

— keep your bedding clean as well.

— no picking of skin on your lips, cuticle etc.

— gua sha to help improve blood circulation and lessen toxins.

— cold therapy may take three to five minutes of being uncomfortable, but your energy levels will be boosted for the rest of the day.

— remove makeup before you go to bed.

BODY CARE

— shower every day.

— exfoliate 2x a week.

— use body lotion (shea butter/aloe vera gel/coconut oil).

HAIR CARE

— wash hair 2-3x a week

— oil your scalp 2x a week, at least 3 hours before shampoo.

— hair mask 1x per week.

— never brush wet hair.

— use silk pillow case.

HYGIENE

— brush your teeth 2x a day, clean tongue and the roof of the mouth daily.

— floss daily.

— cut your nails 1x a week, never remove the cuticles.

— glycolic acid under arm for odor and discoloration.

— never use soap on your coochie.

Mental Glow Up-

MINDSET

— set clear goals- define and breakdown your aspirations.

— start your mornings with positive affirmations.

— surround yourself with uplifting content and people.

— be shamelessly selfish to your career and mental health, remove anyone or anything that doesn't align with your priorities and wellbeing.

— boost your brain health by these 4 neuroscience tools:

difficult first: start your day with the most difficult task (cortisol and dopamine are high in the body meaning that your body/mind is primed to work).

rest your eyes: introduce a micro-pause after learning by resting/closing your eyes - will help retain information better.

tomorrow's worries: write tomorrow's to-do list before bed as it is proven to be effective in helping you fall asleep.

find time to play: engage in low-stake play. can be anything you find fun but where the outcome doesn't matter (induces neuroplasticity + reduces stress).

MIND

— meditation might take as low as ten minutes, but your focus will be improved for the rest of the day.

— no social media after waking up and at least an hour before bed.

— keep aside 1 hr of time to read daily! reading a new book may take five hours, but you will keep the knowledge forever.

— journaling, gratitude.

— digital detox once a week or for 12 hours.

— limit unnecessary screentime, unfollow or cut off people you don't want to see.

JOURNALING

— choose a regular time each day to journal, making it a part of your routine.

— find a quiet, comfortable place free from distractions. light a candle if you want.

— allow your thoughts to flow without censoring or editing.

— write about your feelings and emotions to understand them better. write about things you are thankful for to boost your mood. write about your short-term and long-term goals. identify what triggers certain emotions or reactions

— set a timer for 5-10 minutes and write continuously during that time.

— reflect on both positive experiences and challenges.

— make lists, journal your thoughts on these questions.

— journal at night to clear your mind before bedtime, because emotions and thoughts lose their power once we acknowledge them.

— a gratitude practice may take five minutes, but your mindset will be shifted for the rest of the day.

AFFIRMATIONS

— customise affirmations to your needs.

Personal Life-

WEEKLY TASKS

— initiate small changes: begin with small, manageable tasks such as making your bed or cleaning your room every sunday.

— celebrate your success: reward yourself when you achieve your goals or have a consistently productive week. consider treats like buying flowers for yourself or watching your favorite show.

DAILY WORK

— set achievable goals: establish realistic goals for the day, week, or month ahead.

— track your progress.

— organise your work space, declutter your shelves etc.

— embrace the power of lists: keep a list of tasks to be done and their deadlines. this way, you start each day with a clear plan. to make it visually appealing and motivating, consider using productivity apps like evernote, habit tracker, or notion.

PRODUCTIVITY TIPS

— wake up early.

— plan ahead everything, do scheduling. you can use:

google calendar / notion / tasks .

— if the task takes less than 2 minutes to finish, do it immediately.

— countdown rule, if you are procrastinating, count 1-2-3-4-5 and jump.

— start slow, don't rush and try to do everything at one time.

— follow a proper routine, use app locks based on screentime.

— pomodoro technique, 25 min work, and 5 min break.

— schedule longer break times as well e.g 30 min nap.

[theinkwise]

Unlock Your Inner Power: The Morning Ritual That Will Transform Your Life

In the quiet stillness of the morning, before the world awakens, lies a secret power—an untapped reservoir of potential that can transform your entire life. Imagine starting your day with clarity, purpose, and a sense of accomplishment that propels you forward with unstoppable momentum. This isn’t just a fantasy; it’s the reality for those who have mastered the art of the morning ritual. In this…