Kia Ora dear readers ,

Hope you are keeping well and warm if you live in the southern hemisphere as I do🌻😊

I love winter so this time of the year is something that I always look forward to -for those who are wary of winter , it’s best to remember the words of the Renaissance poet Shelley , “if winter’s here can spring be far behind.”

It rains often here in Auckland and it is mandatory to keep our hearts open and spirits warm.💚💙

The intention of my post today is to share a skill referred to as the REST 🌸

It is a strategy that incorporates mindfulness and cognitive (thinking skills ) tools to help to navigate through thoughts and memories that sometimes can be intrusive 🐒

REST is about using the following

1. Relax, 2. Evaluate ,3.Set intention 4. Take action

Relax : So when reminded of something that is disturbing or when feeling triggered learn to – Relax and stay in the moment – choose the moment to be aware of your thoughts – hold on to something or thought that is calming and just be present 🍀

Embrace more if nature , art, music and excercise

Evaluate : Ask yourself , why you are feeling triggered or fearful – be compassionate towards yourself and use expansive kindness on the self ask yourself what would you like to do about it🌸use acceptance and plentiful kindness when evaluating your context 💙

Set Intention : write down what you would like to achieve that is value based – around your values – for example

how would you like to progress in two years ‘ time

What values would you like to use to get to where you want to go – it might be around giving up an addiction , or might be around contributing to community or staying connected to family

please note the minute you work around values , emotions takes a step back .💚

Take Action: Once you have done that work towards your intention

Begin with small steps

For example if you want to work towards connection to community through service , you begin by exploring opportunities to volunteer for an hour

If it is to address an eating problem or drinking problem you might begin by using distraction though walking , through making a routine for yourself by being with kind service minded people who would help you feel and do better , based on value of commitment and kindness ☀️🌸💕

Have a wonderful weekend and make it a priority to be extra kind and compassionate to yourselves and to your fellow citizens

Arohanui💕🌸🍀🌟☀️