January Soul Snacks

What Are Soul Snacks?

Soul Snacks are spontaneous, short breaks that allow you to nurture your spirit in just 15 minutes or less. These activities are designed to bring joy and warmth to your life, especially during the colder months. Here’s a week’s worth of Soul Snacks to help you stay positive and energized.

Day One: Reflect on Your Achievements

Regardless of how you're doing with your New Year's resolutions, take a moment to put a positive spin on things. Ask yourself: In what ways is your life right on track? What do you love about the way your life is right now? Record your thoughts and insights in your journal. Journaling has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health (source).

Day Two: Align Your Spending with Your Values

Ensure your dollars are doing what you want them to in this world. Check the evaluation of your favorite stores' social and environmental performance at Green America. For more information, read Eliza Bloom's "How to Make a Difference with Your Dollars" (source).

Day Three: Start the Generosity Game

Initiate the "Generosity Game" in your neighborhood. It starts with a card inviting you to do a good turn for someone—anonymously. Then you pass on the card, which invites the kindness recipient to perform a random act of kindness for someone else. You can download and print the cards at the Generosity Game website. This game fosters community spirit and encourages creative ways to make the world a little nicer.

Day Four: Connect with a Friend

A recent study indicates that a weekly talk with a friend can be as effective against moderate depression as counseling or antidepressants (source). Even if you're not feeling blue, call a friend who may be having a tough time. Meet her for coffee or a jog through the park. Let her know how much she means to you.

Day Five: Use Aromatherapy

Put aromatherapy to work for you. Try an energizing scent, such as orange, or a soothing scent, such as lavender. Combine two drops of essential oil with a teaspoon of safflower or canola oil. Massage the blend onto your pulse points. Aromatherapy has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood (source). You can download aromatherapist Francoise Rapp's "Spa Recipes for All Seasons" for free here.

Day Six: Indulge in Seasonal Recipes

Treat yourself to a new magazine full of seasonal recipes. Bon Appetit and Cooking Light are great choices, especially if you're watching your calories. Cooking can be a therapeutic activity that reduces stress and promotes mindfulness (source). Get good deals and free gifts on these magazines here.

Day Seven: Plan a Mini-Escape

Brainstorm ways you can get away from it all in 15 minutes or less. Whether it's an indulgent bath, a phone call to a distant friend, or quiet time with a good novel, schedule one of these "escape tasks" for today. Then call a friend and encourage her to do the same. Taking short breaks can significantly improve your mental well-being and productivity (source).

Interesting Stats

• Journaling: 27% of people who journal report a significant reduction in stress levels (source).
• Social Connections: People with strong social connections are 50% more likely to live longer (source).
• Aromatherapy: 64% of people using aromatherapy report improved mood and reduced anxiety (source).

By incorporating these Soul Snacks into your daily routine, you can nurture your spirit and bring a little more joy and warmth into your life, even during the coldest months.