Many of us have rituals and habits that we use for our wellbeing without even thinking about it. They may be the daily habit of getting on the yoga mat, the pleasure of a hot shower or a bubble bath. Maybe you sit quietly for a few minutes each day or gain satisfaction from writing your thoughts in a journal. Sometimes the rituals and habits are weekly, monthly or occasional as required.
A great habit of getting into is keeping a commonplace book. A commonplace book is a book where you note quotes from books, song lyrics, things you hear, something beautiful that you have seen. But it's also more than that.
It’s one place to keep things that inspire you, that you love, that will take you back to happy memories. Your commonplace book is a place where you can store things like concert or theatre tickets, train or plane tickets that will evoke happy memories.
It's not like a diary that may make you feel pressured to add to each day; it's a place to note things that inspire you, to store happy memories. You add to it when you have something to add and revisit it when you feel the need or desire to do so. Your commonplace book is a place you can return to gain inspiration, to remember a happy memory or to store pieces of beautiful fabric, pictures, or photos. You can decorate your commonplace book, add doodles and drawings that make you smile. Store any information there that you may want to use again. It's as individual as you are.
Your commonplace book makes an excellent tool for when you feel down or unmotivated. Your book is an investment in your future. Many people are already keeping one without realising the positive effects it is having on their mental health and wellbeing.
Did you know that World Wellbeing Week falls from 22nd to 26th June this year? June is, therefore, a great time to reassess your own wellbeing. Sometimes, we are so focused on others' wellbeing or the goal that we forget the importance of taking time to look after ourselves. If you have been running on close to empty for some time, are stressed or if you are suffering chronic or nagging pain; Hypnotherapy is an act of self-care that makes a difference to the wellbeing and lives of people like you; including some who did not even realise they'd benefit from help. Asking for support is an act of self-love, a sign of strength, not weakness. Starting a commonplace book for your future self is an act of self care that works alongside hypnotherapy.