Inspired by one of my favorite blogs Brocante Home (who was in turn inspired by a feature in Harper’s Bazaar written by Diana Vreeland), this is an idea that really resonated with me.
Why Don’t You is a week’s worth of ideas for adding a little something special to your life. Pick and choose what sparks your interest and fits into your schedule. Or use these as inspiration for coming up with your own ideas. You don’t have to do them all, but it serves as a simple reminder to take time to cherish yourself and your life in some small way.
Why Don’t You – Week of March 2
Get some light!
March can be hard for me. I know that spring is right around the corner, but living here in Canada can mean that we only get little peeks at it now and then during the month of March. The possibility of snow is still strong.
So, I’m making a point to try to get some sunlight when I can. Sometimes leaving my house (since I work from home) isn’t really an option and it’s certainly not nice enough to work outside. At the very least, I take the time to stand in an open doorway or by a window and soak in what sun there is.
No sunlight? Look into a place that might have SAD lights for use. Our local library has them. It’s a great excuse to sit down with the light and read a chapter of my latest novel. You might also want to talk to your doctor about your Vitamin D levels. They’re often depleted by this point in the year if you live in the northern hemisphere and she/he might suggest a supplement.
Head to your local farmer’s market.
If you’re lucky enough to have a year-round one in your city, this is a great time to visit it. Once again, it helps bring that touch of spring into your home! If you’re like me, I make a half day event out of this.
I grab some breakfast or lunch and then spend a few hours browsing around the market. Ask questions – most of the farmers really love to talk about their products! You might find something new to try.
Make a list of 10 Positive Affirmations.
That’s right – write down 10 positive things you can say about yourself. Hang them up where you can see them every day. You might even want to type them up in a pretty font, add some color, and frame them.
Make a habit of pausing to look at them every day. You might even want to choose one to repeat to yourself every morning, rotating through the list.
Take part in Lent.
It’s not too late. So what if you didn’t already choose something to give up or take up? You can start now. So what if you’re not Catholic? You can still choose to observe Lent as a period of intentional self-growth.
If you need some ideas on how to kick start Lent, check out my post. It’s never too late and I’ve got some great quick and easy ideas you can fit into any schedule – yes, even yours!
Eat something healthy.
If your eating habits haven’t been the best lately, just start small. Shoot for one healthier meal a week. You can always increase from there but it’s a good starting point!
Another approach is to look at one specific goal. I want to eat 2 vegetables every day. I want to start my day with a healthy, hearty breakfast. I want to increase my fiber intake.
This chili recipe is zero points on the Weight Watchers Freestyle plan. It’s low in fat and loaded with fiber. It’s also incredibly filling and oh so delicious. We often eat it as “chili-getti” (served over spaghetti). Really amp up the nutrition factor by serving it over spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
Make a plan.
There is something incredibly productive and freeing about putting things down on paper (or your computer) and creating a plan for something. Perhaps you’re going to plan your garden (planting season isn’t that far away!). Or summer vacation.
Consider planning a capsule wardrobe. Plan your meals for the week. Make a plan for a dinner party or game night with friends. Or, if you want to get really serious, make a plan for your final wishes should something happen to you.
Get a head start on spring cleaning.
Spring cleaning can be overwhelming. Why not spread it out over the next 6-8 weeks and complete it in smaller, more manageable chunks? Work room by room and set a timer. When the timer goes off, you’re done for the day!
What lovely moment will you add to your life this week?
For more ideas, check out the previous Why Don’t You post here.
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