August 30, 2024
Simply step outside with your hot drink to savour a little more of your day.
I’m a tea and milk kinda girl, yours might be flat white, ginger infusion or Earl Grey. Most of us love putting the kettle on when we need a break in our day, yet it can be an auto-pilot process. Rather than run around the house doing jobs as your drink gets cold or taking your mug straight back to your desk to pour back in a few mindless gulps, make the deliberate choice to enjoy your next cup outdoors.
Cup in hand? Take the next five minutes to connect with your senses and surroundings. Notice the fresh air fill your lungs, the colours and shapes in the sky, your hands holding the warm mug, the steam rising into the air, or the sounds you can hear in the distance. Breathe and enjoy just ‘being’ for a few moments.
Research shows piggy backing activities you’d like to do more of, like getting outside, onto a pre-existing habits, like coffee breaks, is a good way to get your new behaviour to stick. It’s simple, but it forces you to pause and step-away from your to-do list. So come rain or shine, the practice of getting fresh air as you savour your drink is good for your mind and body. Getting outside increases oxygen levels in the blood helping your memory function, focus and energy. Sunlight also boosts serotonin which helps your mood and improves sleep, while Vitamin-D supports your immune system.
Who knew cuppas + fresh air = little booster to your day?!
CONTACT ME
Have we met?
I'm Dr Kate
Chartered PSYCHOLOGIST
ACCREDITED EMDR Consultant
IFS, CBT, ACT, DBT & Outdoor
Growing up in the Irish countryside, I spent much of my childhood outdoors, developing a love of nature that has stayed with me.
As a teenager, I joined an outdoor expedition where our leader asked us to take off our rucksacks and sit quietly for ten minutes. I still remember the unexpected feeling of awe and gratitude as I took in my surroundings. It was my first experience of deliberately practising mindfulness in nature.
At university, joining the surf club rekindled that connection. I remember my first sunset surf, the light glistening on the waves and the sound of water against the board, bringing my attention fully into the moment. The skydiving club offered more memorable experience of feeling completely present in my body.
My understanding of mindfulness continued to develop through a ten-day silent retreat and my doctoral research into therapists' experiences of mindfulness. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the quieter moments of awareness we can cultivate in everyday life.
Today, I'm a Chartered Psychologist and Accredited EMDR Consultant, offering personalised online therapy informed by psychological expertise, thoughtful attention and a genuine interest in the experiences that shape us. My connection with nature continues to influence my own wellbeing and the reflections I share through my work.
Natural Choice therapy
Dr Kate
5 Steps to a Happier and more productive Day
Ready to restructure your busy day for happiness & impact?
Download the free steps PDF and use the list of break ideas to inspire your next break time, with space to add your own favourites, and a checklist to tick off as you go.
YES, I NEED THIS Freebie