As it is springtime, there is no better way to exercise mindfulness than through a beautiful floral gift. Inspired by Scandinavian influencer and TikTok icon, Matilda Djerf, flowers are a simple way to brighten a physical space as well as one’s personal mind space. The wellness activity of using fresh cut flowers to brighten a room is proven to increase serotonin levels and lift spirits. When we purchase a bouquet of flowers, there is a conscious understanding in the activity that a traditional display of affection is being shown toward ourselves. That is, when we give ourselves an intentional present for the purpose of relaxation, we can experience true happiness. Having a living plant to take care of and nurture is a tangible illustration of the tender caretaking of our minds in wellness activities. The visual of the flowers creates a perfect metaphor for growth, strength, and new life born in light.

The author, Thomas Starr King, writes that “the spirit of a person’s life is ever shedding some power, just as a flower is steadily bestowing fragrance upon the air.” Flowers are vastly unique, presenting distinct fragrances and color patterns that shine in a room like a kaleidoscope of magic. There is a reason that brides are traditionally decorated with flowers; or tombstones are adorned with loved ones’ favorite roses. Flowers are the wondrous universal language gap. When we don’t have enough words to express sympathy, adoration, and gratefulness, the gift of a flower conveys all. Each petal and stem work together to create a harmonious symphony of beauty, boosting up the minds and smiles of all who are nearby.

Flowers are a powerful mindful tool to add towards a wellness practice. Whether it be for yourself or shared with family and friends, the gift of a flower secures anxieties and stress like no other, encouraging our minds to breathe in the sunlight and watch as peace and beauty prosper.

Sadly, it’s incredibly difficult to pause in our modern world. To actively choose disconnection and let the mind feel at ease. Most often, vacations take the role of a dynamic party and pleasure in an overload of activity. Waking up to watch the sunrise across the ocean waves, after a night’s rest of nearly four hours. Or anxiously waiting for the correct metro stop after a spilled cappuccino and misread work email crafted dizzying confusion. Amid bustling tour schedules, abnormal closing times for art museums, and the evening rush of restaurant crowds, there is little time for anything other than stress. We have allowed the fear of missing out on every possible source of entertainment, food, and Instagram post to consume our initial reason for traveling to begin with. Our minds desperately crave a true vacation.

Scandinavia has discovered the secret to being truly happy on vacation. Along with the joys of IKEA furniture and the painted Dala horse, Sweden promises a more relaxed, sustaining tradition for your next getaway. The practice of Fika has completely changed the world of coffee culture and consumption through a dedicated mindfulness technique. Fika began as a response to 17th century prohibition on coffee beans and has now transformed the idea of a “coffee date” into a ritual centered on peace and quality conversation among friends, family, and the mind. 

Traditionally around 1:30 in the afternoon, Fika involves a sweet pastry or dessert bread (fikabröd) paired with delicious espresso and restful company. The practice can take place in a physical cafe or patisserie, or in the comfort of one’s home or hotel. Wherever is most comfortable and provides the greatest ease of mind, is the perfect spot. Likewise, there is no set time restraint for Fika. The break could range anywhere from fifteen minutes to two hours, depending on the needs for the day. Although some Swedish businesses highly encourage employees to participate in Fika, some managers require it, recognizing the immeasurable importance and value of rest on creativity and job performance. 

The most important part of Fika is the conscious setting aside of due dates and draining responsibilities to simply slow down and focus on the beauty of the present moment. This Fika state of mind allows you to mentally recharge without a phone screen or technology to distract. To purposefully pause and celebrate the renewed spirit of the mind and body when surrounded by loved ones who inspire true rest.

Once you return to “the real world”, the practice of Fika and mindfulness doesn’t have to end. Whether on vacation or at home, setting aside fifteen minutes a day to prioritize your mind’s well-being is vital to decreasing burnout and making conscious steps towards a healthier, joyful lifestyle.

Article Source: What Is Fika Coffee – Exploring a Swedish Coffee Tradition -… (eraofwe.com)

Vinyasa is a particular style of yoga that draws from strength training, pilates, and the philosophy of yoga. Within the Vinyasa practice, participants enter a posture of consciousness, allowing the body to smoothly flow from one sequence to another. Vinyasa combines the best aspects of classical yoga while incorporating elements of power through repetitive endurance exercises. These seamless transitions of movement hold endless possibilities for yoga attendees and instructors to proactively work on a balanced, grounded self.

It’s important to remember that each Vinyasa sequence is orchestrated by the breath. As the body finds a natural rhythm for each Vinyasa flow, strength is centered around a gentle inhale and exhale. Here are some Vinyasa sequences that will provide healthy challenges for those new and acquainted with yoga.

Plank

Beginning on the mat, arrive at a plank position. This is achieved at the level of difficulty most comfortable for the body. Knees may be on the mat or lifted in a holding position. Hold for several breaths.

Chaturanga

Exhaling, bend the elbows to gently lower the body to the mat. The goal is to reach the lowest point of a traditional pushup, allowing the body to flow from a plank to a straight-line position. Although challenging, hold for a few breaths.

Cobra

On the next inhale, allow the body to lower completely to the mat. The upper body remains lifted, gently reaching up as the hips remain on the ground. Remain in this stretch of the lower back for several breaths.

Downward-Facing Dog

On the next exhale, let the toes plant themselves firmly on the mat. Straighten the arms and lift the body into a downward position. Feet are firmly stabilized on the ground as the hands remain outstretched and the spine is elongated. Stay in this position for several breaths. An optional movement is to pedal the feet while in downward dog, providing the calf muscles with a gentle stretch.

Savasana

Once you have reached the end of your Vinyasa practice, allow the body to cool down and rest in a comfortable position. Lie down on your back with the feet spread to the width of your mat, eyes closed, and palms facing toward the ceiling. This posture symbolizes the end of the workout, and is a time of relaxation for the body to acknowledge the work performed.

Vinyasa Yoga finds its strength in variety and is the perfect blend of power and grace for a balanced workout. Whether you are new or experienced to the practice of yoga, Vinyasa offers something for everyone. Let your body express itself in a new and creative way, flowing from sequence to hold with a posture of balanced wellness this spring season.