Are you feeling overwhelmed?
Mindfulness, the age-old practice of fully engaging with the present moment and truly observing what you're doing, is a skill that can benefit people of all ages.
Try these creative ways to bring a sense of calm to your day
 In times of stress; a simple technique that you can use anywhere, anytime, without anyone around you being aware. |  Completely immerse yourself in music. Pick up on the different layers of sound, noticing each instrument and the rhythm? |  Focus on taking in a deep, slow breath, and exhaling steadily to fill the bubble. Pay close attention to the bubbles as they form, detach, and pop or float |
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 Research shows doodling can enhance concentration, memory, and problem-solving, ease anxiety, distract from negative thoughts, and improve overall mood. |  When you eat, focus on what you see, smell, and taste. |  Like mindfulness, the key to origami is releasing the need for perfection or self-judgment. Start with simple designs like paper planes, animals, and fortune tellers to develop your folding skills. |
Progressive Relaxation
Progressive Relaxation Start by getting comfortable. You can sit in a chair with your feet on the floor or lie down. Let your hands rest where they feel comfy. Take a slow breath in through your nose… and let it out through your mouth. 1. Hands and Arms As you breathe in, gently make two little fists. Not too tight, just enough to feel your muscles working. Hold the breath… and the fists… for 3… 2… 1. Now breathe out and let your hands open. Feel your fingers loosen and relax. Imagine the tension melting out like warm sunlight. 2. Shoulders Next, breathe in and lift your shoulders up towards your ears, like you’re trying to touch them. Hold for 3… 2… 1. Breathe out and let your shoulders drop. Let them feel heavy, like they’re sinking into the chair or bed. 3. Face and Jaw Breathe in and squeeze your face a little—wrinkle your nose, squeeze your eyes, clench your jaw gently. Hold for 3… 2… 1. Then breathe out and let everything soften. Imagine your face turning calm, like a still pond. 4. Stomach Place a hand on your belly if it helps. Breathe in and tighten your tummy muscles a bit, like someone is about to poke you. Hold for 3… 2… 1. Breathe out and let your belly relax. Let it soften like a balloon slowly letting out air. 5. Legs Breathe in and straighten your legs or push your feet gently into the floor. Feel the muscles working in your thighs and calves. Hold for 3… 2… 1. Breathe out and let your legs relax. Imagine them sinking heavily into the floor or bed. 6. Whole Body Take a slow, deep breath in. As you breathe out, imagine tension leaving your whole body. Feel calm spreading from your head to your toes, like warm water washing over you. Finish When you’re ready, wiggle your fingers and toes. Feel the calmness in your body. Open your eyes when it feels right.