Say goodbye to 2020 and apply lessons learned to a mindful approach to life in 2021.
It goes without saying- 2020 was one of the hardest years in our lives. For me personally, it started with my father breaking his hip (he is doing well.) Then we learned he had another medical issue (he is doing well here too.) Then COVID hit. As an immunocompromised person (I have had three kidney transplants, and the current one is rejecting), I knew right away that this pandemic would mean that my husband and I would be in extreme isolation.
2020 taught me so many things about mindful living. It crystallized my most important relationships and allowed for new ventures, like this blog with my best friend. My relationship with my husband has never been better and we walk at least three miles a day in nature. Life is good!
Like many of you, I cannot wait for my vaccination. But even when I am able, I will not leave behind these life changing lessons. I will continue to put my energy and time where it matters the most. 2020 opened up space for truly valuable activities and use of my valuable energy and time. Live with simple intention and make your own rules.
My approach to mindful living is prioritizing what adds the most value and letting go of the rest. Eliminate, the best you can, anything that does not provide energy. Leverage technology where it adds value. FaceTime and WhatsApp are awesome options for seeing people. Talk more often to stay connected to those who matter. Visit your parents more often. They love you and are the best friends you will ever have.
Enjoy people and travel. I will visit my best friend in New York more often and enjoy the best that my city, Chicago, has to offer more regularly. I will pick up girlfriends and drive them to the city to see the symphony. We will have languishing lunches at awesome restaurants downtown.
Continue to take the time to cook healthy meals for yourself. Food on the run can be necessary (I love a Starbucks quad latte or a McDonalds cheeseburger), but try to make healthful meals in advance and freeze them for those busy days. Prioritize the only temple you have- your body and mind! Enjoy making and eating food and the process of nurturing yourself and others. Buy the chopped fruit from the store if you are too busy to cut it yourself. Hire a mindfulness or nutrition coach. My friend Barbie at Longevity Wellness is absolutely incredible!
Buy less, but more of what you love. Treat yourself to those luxurious things and leave behind what takes up unnecessary space. Is there a perfume you really love? If its too expensive full price, buy it on eBay! I cherish my vintage sweater collection, boot collection and quilts. Indulge your collections and wear the things that make you feel good. Make 2021 the very best year of your life and put those lessons from 2020 into action!
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