MINDFULNESS:

The Wellbeing Bench Definition of Mindfulness:

Mindfulness is the internal act of 'sitting down' while the world keeps moving.

It is the conscious choice to let the flow of life’s demands drift past you like water on a canal, so you can finally hear the sound of your own wisdom.

PAUSE

Mindfulness starts the moment you stop "doing." It is the physical and mental brakes. It’s the transition from being a 'passenger' in your life to sitting on the bench as an 'observer.'

Canalside Tip: "Just as a boat must dock to refuel, you must pause to reclaim your energy."

PRESENCE

Now that you’ve paused, mindfulness is noticing the 'temperature' of your thoughts without trying to change them.

It’s feeling the wood of the bench beneath you and the air on your skin.

Canalside Tip: Watch your thoughts like ripples on the water - notice them, but don't try to catch them.

🦋 have a look at this Short in my PAUSING playlist and please subscribe to my channel

PERSPECTIVE

Since you paused and stayed present, the "mud" in the water has settled.

Mindfulness provides the clarity to see what really matters.

Many of your "stressors" are just passing canalboats, not the destination.

PROCEED

Mindfulness ensures you don't just start running again out of habit.

You step back from the bench with intention.

You choose which direction to walk based on the stillness you found in the pause.

Mindfulness isn't about clearing your mind - it's about clearing a space on the bench for yourself.

See my YouTube channel for videos to evoke calm @canalsidelifecoach

The WellBEING Bench APP for FREE downloads and articles

A winter solstice wellbeing walk along the canal with Anne Brookes, Canalside Life Coach

I was walking past the Guillotine Lock on the Stratford upon Avon - Birmingham canal when this narrowboat came along...I asked if it was OK to film him.
It was clear after a minute of filming, when he approached the junction known as the Avon Ring, that he had not planned which way to go - left to Worcester or right to Birmingham? it took him half a minute to decide then he manoeuvres.....very slowly until out of sight.

WATCH my YouTube SHORT and please subscribe to my channel :)

PLEASE help raise money for the charity The CANAL & RIVER TRUST, UK's largest canal charity: donate on my Ko-fi page

VOLUNTEER and help look after 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across England and Wales - find out more HERE

Rejuvenate your energy: Prioritize Sleep

Reclaim your energy by prioritising sleep — simple, science-based bedtime and environment habits that boost vitality and wellbeing with guidance from Canalside Life Coach.

Especially at the start of a new year in the cold (and often darker) northern hemisphere, do you recognise your sleep quality really makes a difference?

Reclaiming vitality is within reach. Here are some strategies to rejuvenate your energy:

💤 Prioritize Sleep

• Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Engage in calming activities such as reading or listening to soothing music to signal your body that it's time to wind down or anything else that really calms your nervous system

• Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool to promote restful sleep

• Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at about the same time each day, even on weekends, to regulate your body's internal clock. Most of us are aware of the impact of daylight and of course the seasonal shifts in sunrise/sunset will have an impact, so do as best you can to accommodate this.

At Canalside Life Coach, I specialize in guiding you to rediscover your vitality and passion for life. My DIY Life Coaching Ebook focuses on holistic approaches to wellbeing, ensuring you not only regain energy but also enhance your overall quality of life.

INVEST IN YOURSELF TODAY - learn more about your coaching opportunities at a range of prices: something to suit you whether you have half an hour or need a tailored package for dealing with stress, developing positive habits or working out the way ahead in your life right now.

Email or book a time with me for more information and a FREE introduction call

WORKING WITH THE CANALSIDE COACH GIVES SPACE TO REFLECT, BOOST THE POSITIVES AND ACHIEVE YOUR OUTCOMES

Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your sleep or health routines.

Image is a calm sea with a full moon glowing in the sky, in a Van Gogh style, it is calm and relaxing.

Are you ready to live life to the fullest after 50?

What if you could hit PAUSE, reset, and REBOOT your life? DIY Life Coaching with my 4P Framework will show you how to

• Break free from negative patterns

• Reconnect with your values & purpose

• Start building a future you want

DIY Life Coaching with the 4P Framework is my Ebook that becomes your friend as you work through practical tips and exercises to help you rediscover your passions, develop new skills, and create your future life

➡️ FIND OUT MORE

FREE SAMPLE HERE

Canalside Walks: Finding Peace and Reflection in Nature - Use the season

Written/Human authored by Anne Brookes

Being aware of the natural world around you that informs your very being will help you sensitise to priorities...

Are the birds gathering bits to build a nest? Are the goslings splashing after their Mum in the canal?

✴️ WATCH my video Natures Impact on Mental Health on my YouTube playlist Coping skills for well-being: https://www.youtube.com/@canalsidelifecoach/playlists