In our new series How I Shine, we're checking in with Shine members from around the world and asking them how they practice self-care, mindfulness, and more. First up is Ashley B., who lives in Florida, U.S.
Earlier this month, Ashley shared with us that she had completed a 365 day streak of checking in with the Shine app. Yup, you read that right—a whole year! She told us a bit about how she built that habit and stuck with it through the seasons.
On how checking in with herself has impacted her day to day life:
Checking in to the Shine app has changed my life! It gives me time to pause and reflect on the day ahead while keeping me centered and focused. Shine fills up my cup and energizes me.
On how she uses her mornings to set the tone of her day:
Last year I was determined to change my outlook on things going on in my work setting. I am an educator, and I found that I was letting little things get me down. I wanted to wake up each day with a positive mindset and make a difference in the lives of others. The Shine app helped me get through this. For instance: The “Future You Self-Care” really resonated with me.
Each morning when I write what I’m grateful for, I also respond with how I will take care of myself that day. This requires me to examine the day ahead and plan something I’m doing for myself. I find that I look forward to whatever I write down all day. It gives me something to smile about and calms me down when I’m overwhelmed.
Each morning when I write what I’m grateful for, I also respond with how I will take care of myself that day.
On what she's learned about herself through Shine:
I took the Shine Self-Care Quiz and found out that I am an Infinite Thinker. I think about things a lot and let my thoughts take over my mind. Sometimes this causes me to not be present. I’ve taken the time to listen to some of the recommended tracks and have been learning about ways to stop my thoughts before they take control.
Additionally, I learned that I feel better when I take the time to prioritize myself. I am able to give to others and be a better version of myself.
The biggest thing I’ve learned from incorporating Shine into my routine is that having a gratitude practice really will change your mindset. In one of the recent Daily Shine episodes, the focus was about thinking of 5 happy things when you are down.
The mind is a powerful thing, and by reminding myself of what I have and specifically thinking about what I’m grateful for, I keep my mindset positive and focused.
By reminding myself of what I have and specifically thinking about what I’m grateful for, I keep my mindset positive and focused.
On how she recommends people use Shine:
The app has become a part of my day, just like brushing my teeth. I recommend saving the daily articles that impact you most to a Pinterest board or bookmark it. Then, when you are having a bad day, revisit the content to keep you positive. Also, check out the daily rituals in the app. Who knew the laundry room could be a mindful place?
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Read Next: What a 7-Day Self-Care Challenge Taught Me About Prioritizing My Needs)
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