How to make yourself comfortable

When you are invited into someone else's house, you may hear the words, "Make yourself comfortable." That advice can be extrapolated into your own home and incorporated into your daily routine.

Simple pleasures and comforts of life can be forgotten when a major life event is happening, during busy times like the holidays, or even during the hustle and bustle of day to day activities.

Review the following ways to increase comfort in your mind, body, heart, and soul:

• Return your awareness to your body frequently. Check to see if it is tense in any place. Shift in your chair, relax your jaw, or take a few deep breaths to ease any physical stress.
• Place a soft, plush robe and slippers in the bathroom to remind you to put them on after you bathe or shower.
• Light your fireplace and cozy up on the couch with a warm blanket and hot cocoa.
• Read off five affirmations in the morning and at night that help you feel and intend peace and love in life.
• Lie down with your partner or kids in spooning position. Hug them tight and close to your body.
• Wear shoes that fit you well and that won't leave calluses or blisters by the end of the day.
• Watch a spiritual cinema movie with a loved one.
• Light a fragrant smelling candle or incense.
• If you are craving a certain food, indulge smartly and in moderation.
• Use the sauna or whirlpool by your gym if it has one.
• When brushing your hair and you come across a knot, tackle one small area at a time instead of trying to forcefully brush the whole piece.
• Stay consciously in the present moment.
• If the kids and dog are running wild in the house, it's OK to put the dog in the kennel, turn off the TV, and have your child sit quietly to do a puzzle.
• Keep your home as organized and clutter-free as possible. Simplify by eliminating excessive knick knacks, old clothes or towels, magazine subscriptions, and newspaper. Donate at thrift stores or animal shelters and designate a bin for recyclable items.
• Don't feel like you have to watch a certain program that your spouse is engaged in. If you prefer silence to read a book or if you want to listen to soft music, then go in another room or put headphones on.
• Take advantage of mini massages and scalp rubs as often as possible. Enjoy the moment when your hairdresser shampoos your hair, when your partner rubs your arm, or when you can give yourself a quick foot massage.
• Eat healthy, fresh baked bread either plain or made into a light vegetarian sandwich.
• If the waiter messes up your order, politely ask him or her to remedy the situation so that you can relax when you're eating a meal prepared to your liking.
• Just because you may be invited to several parties throughout the year doesn't mean you have to attend them all. Use grace and manners if you decide not to go and have some peace and quiet time to yourself.
• Employ the services of a babysitter for a couple hours per week so you can watch a movie you've been wanting to see, attend a workshop you've been waiting for, or have dinner with some adult friends.
• Use the seat warmer in your vehicle if you have one when it's winter time and you're cold.
• Create a wardrobe and hairstyle that is easily manageable, expresses your style, and is classically simple to put together.
• Listen to a meditation or motivational CD depending on your mood.
• Use a purse, backpack, or briefcase that is comfortable on your shoulders, neck, back, and arms.
• Decorate your desk confidently with personal items and objects that ease or inspire your mind and spirit.
• Laugh from your gut. If playing with your preschooler isn't quite bringing the silliness out of you, go rent a comedy movie and enjoy some good laughs.

You may have thought of some other suggestions while reading this list as there are many things you can do to reward and relax yourself daily.

Minimizing anxiety by increasing peace, bliss, and comfort can help keep your focus on holistic well-being and allow you to handle stressful circumstances with a better frame of mind, body, heart, and soul.

Photo: Morguefile/jdurham

Affirmations: It is OK for me to experience comfort. I enjoy feeling and being comfortable when I lie in my bed, wear my favorite slippers, or read a good book. Peaceful, serene, and comfortable activities are part of my daily routine. My holistic health is enhanced when I am comfortably relaxed and in a state of positive well-being.

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