Creative Refuge

Easy ways to eliminate the obstacles to daily self care!

Reduce Work Stress in 10 Easy Steps
To reduce computer-related cumulative stress injuries, Creative Business has assembled 10 Workstation Exercises just for you.
Click here to view, print, and save these fabulous exercises — tape them to your computer and do them daily for optimal relief. (Note: You'll need Acrobat Reader to view this document.)
Illustration and worksheet © Creative Business

Computer as Friend
— by Katharine Sullivan

Like most people these days, you probably work in front of your computer for hours each day. You know your computer as a valuable tool and work assistant. But your computer might also be a considered a friend, gently reminding you to take care of yourself. Here’s a suggestion for some creative self-care that gives a lot of benefit without adding a lot to your already busy schedule.

Freeware Alarm Clock
for PC users (Zip file).

DOWNLOAD

Freeware Alarm Clock
for MAC OX users (StuffIt file).

DOWNLOAD

Set your computer to send a "reminder tone," an enjoyable sound that grabs your attention at specific times throughout the day (i.e. download Winnie-the-Pooh WAV files for bouncy-wouncy reminder songs). It could sound every hour, periodically during your work day, or whenever you find it most valuable. Post a list of self-care options in a handy spot near your computer. When the reminder tone sounds, choose an option.

Here’s a sample list:

1. Look out the window and take 5 deep breaths
2. Drink a glass of water
3. Eat a healthy snack
4. Take a quiet walk
5. Read a page from an inspirational publication, a poem or a quote
6. Play with a favorite art medium (such as pastels, watercolors, or fingerpaint)
7. Grab a toy and daydream
8. Write in your journal
9. Take a meditation break
10. Water a plant or smell some flowers

Set things up ahead of time to simplify these short breaks. For example, you can have a glass of water and healthy snacks handy, have your chosen play materials and journal accessible, put some fun toys (i.e. slinky, playdough, silly puddy, puzzles) in a basket nearby, or set up a quiet meditative corner close by.

Sometimes we place daunting expectations upon ourselves such as thinking we need to carve out big chunks of time daily for elaborate self-care. If we set ourselves up ahead of time, have simple pleasures close by, set a reminder tone to take time out to recharge, and give ourselves permission to do just a little each day, the obstacles to self-care dissipate. You will be amazed at what a difference just a 1-5 minute break can have on your well-being, your mood and your productivity!

Katharine “Katie” Sullivan earned her B.A. in Communication from the University of San Francisco and her M.S. in Environmental Education from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. Katie began wholistic wellbeing studies in 1980, began studying Yoga in 1992 and continues her passion for these studies to this day.

Katie has had a lifelong love of Nature and our relationship and connection with the natural world, ourselves, and each other. She has worked as a Park Ranger / Naturalist for 10+ years at Rocky Mountain and Grand Canyon National Parks.

Currently Katie is crafting a new business, balancing her life as Creative Being, Partner, and new Mom with her Life Work as Facilitator/Naturalist. She offers individual and group sessions and retreats in the fields of Nature Connection, Creativity, Yoga and Wellbeing (Body/Mind/Heart/Spirit). Katie’s passion is to celebrate the Good — the gentleness, strength, kindness, peace, and truth in others, herself and the world. She loves to surround herself with people who choose this uplifting, life-affirming perspective.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed on this Web site are not necessarily those of CreativeRefuge.com and are not medical advice. Please consult your doctor prior to making any changes to your existing diet or exercise regimen.

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