The Kernel

10 Simple Ways to Nourish Your Mind, Body & Soul

Our mind, body and soul are all connected. When one of these factors are off balance, our whole body will feel it on some level. In order to nurture all three of these areas, we need to find ways to recenter and restore. Slowly start to incorporate some of these simple ways to nourish your mind, body and soul into your daily routine and see how they positively impact your overall health.

1. Exercise

The great part about exercise is that there is an activity available for someone at literally every level of fitness and capability. Find an exercise you enjoy and start doing it regularly. Research shows that exercise boosts your mood by pumping oxygen into the brain and releasing feel-good endorphins.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is one of the biggest factors in our energy levels throughout the day. Lately, I’ve been lenient with my bedtime schedule, but I always want to make sure I’m getting a solid eight hours of sleep. Getting a good night’s rest will put you in a better mood, help reduce stress, boost your immune system – among many other health benefits.

3. Meditate

Set some time aside each day to rest your mind. Even a moment of meditation can have huge benefits. Meditation improves memory, attention, mood, immune system function, sleep, and creativity. All it takes is a few minutes a day to start reaping the benefits. Find a comfortable position in a quiet space. Focus on your breath, not your thoughts. Allow your thoughts to come and then allow them to leave just as easily and return to focusing on the breath. The longer you meditate and the more often you do it, the better, more relaxed, more present you will feel.

4. Get Fresh Air

Trees, flowers, grass, wildlife, and sunshine all help you to automatically relax, de-stress and feel nourished right down to your soul. Whether it’s during the day or on the weekend, getting some fresh air and Vitamin D is a great way to feel more refreshed. I like to go for a walk in the middle of the day to get away from my to-do list and come back to work with a clear head.

5. Eat More Plant-Based Foods

Getting the right nutrition is the best way of ensuring your body has the adequate amounts of fuel to keep you going. Eating more plant-based foods improves the health of your gut so you are better able to absorb the nutrients from food that support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Try finding ways to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your meals without making a big deal about it. Put spinach in your fruit smoothies, snack on carrots and hummus, swap out noodles for zoodles.

6. Breathe Deeply

This is an action we take whether we think about it or not. But in this situation, I’m referring to consciously breathing as a way to reap a plethora of physical and emotional benefits. Breathing releases toxins, improves digestion, and strengthens your immune system. Consciously breathing also helps you focus, feel less stressed, and relaxes your muscles. For maximum results, inhale through your nose, and exhale through your mouth – allow your belly to expand – hold your breath for at least 3 seconds before exhaling – and repeat as necessary.

7. Be Grateful

Stop to think about the things you have going for you and appreciate them. You can make a mental list of the things you’re grateful for first thing in the morning or right before bed, or write them down in a gratitude journal. The health benefits of gratitude are extensive. The simple act can help relieve stress, strengthen social relationships, improve self-esteem and more.

8. Declutter

Taking some time to let go emotionally, spiritually, and physically to anything that no longer holds value to you is a great way to nourish your soul. What you’ll be left with are the people and things that make you feel the most happy, loved, and supported. Here are some great areas where it might be helpful to get rid of clutter: clothing that no longer fits or you haven’t worn in over a year, papers collecting dust, friends or acquaintances who are no longer loving, kind, or supportive.

9. Fuel Your Passions

Set aside some time each day to do what makes your soul happy. Sometimes you can get so caught up in daily life that you actually put what you enjoy on the back burner. Life is about balance. Many of us work so much that we forget how great it feels to paint, dance, make music, write, or garden. Always make time in your life for things that make you happy. All work and no play can leave you more at risk of stress and health issues. Find time for some fun and play in your life and do more of what you love!

10. Practice Yoga

Yoga is amazing for your overall health. It helps you build muscle strength, coordination, and flexibility while calming your mind. It also encompasses the mind-body-soul connection. Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, it’s easy to squeeze in just 15 minutes of yoga practice a day.

Article by Megan Reid, Digital Community Manager.