This past weekend I was away on a family trip to Vermont. A three day weekend during peak leaf peeping season on a beautiful property in Woodstock. The gratitude for this gift overflows. As I was counting my blessings for all that surrounded me, I realized that one of the reasons why this weekend was so powerful, was that is was fulfilling to all five senses.
This had me thinking about my favorite self-care treats and I realized the best experiences are truly a buffet for the senses. Smell, touch, sight, sound, and yes ... taste! Not only do our senses help us enjoy the experience, but by pulling our five senses into our self-care, we can be more present and in the moment.
For me this weekend, my sensory self-care included the smell of Vermont cured bacon with a back drop of coffee brewing each morning. The sights included vibrant foliage in reds, oranges and yellows. The sounds included breezes through the leaves as well as crows chasing away the blue jays from top of trees. My taste buds were treated to local cheeses and freshly picked crisp apples, oh and I can't forget the maple syrup ... on everything! And for touch soft sweaters protected me against the cool crisp air, mixed with unusually warm sunshine. Divine!
So how can you build up your sensory self-care routines?
- SMELL - essential oils, baked goods, aromatic tea, fresh flowers, and a wood fire all are ways to add scents to heighten any experience.
- SIGHT - artwork, family photographs, objects from nature, pretty fabrics or papers, trips into nature, and mood lighting all add to the power of a view.
- SOUND - music, nature sounds, running water, chants, and even silence can be soothing to the ears.
- TOUCH - soft fabrics, warm water, silky creams, furry pets, and human touch can be wonderful additions to most self-care routines.
So when looking for a simple self-care pick-me-up, think of your five senses and add some variety to make it stronger!