January Soul Snacks by Susie Michelle Cortright, http://www.momscape.com

Soul Snacks are spontaneous time-outs: creative ways
you can nurture your spirit in 15 minutes or less.

Here's a week's worth, specially designed
to help you infuse this cold season with joy and warmth.

Day One
Regardless of how you're doing with your New Year's Resolutions,
let us take this day 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.


Day Two
Make sure your dollars are doing what you want them to in
this world. Check the evaluation of your favorite stores'
social and environmental performance here:
http://www.responsibleshopper.org


Day Three
Start the "Generosity Game" in your neighborhood. It all
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 go perform a random act of kindness
for someone else. You can download and print the cards at
the Generosity Game website. The site also provides more
information on the game and fosters imagination on creative
ways to make the world a little nicer.
http://www.generosity.org


Day Four
A recent study indicates that a weekly talk with a friend
can be as effective against moderate depression as counseling or
antidepressants. 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
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 to a teaspoon of
safflower or canola oil, whatever's on hand. Massage
the blend onto your pulse points.


Day Six
Treat yourself to a new magazine full of new recipes
that are just right for the season. Bon Appetit and
Cooking Light (if you're watching your calories) are
great choices.


Day Seven
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.


About the Author:
Susie Cortright is the founder of momscape.com - http://www.momscape.com -
an award-winning online magazine that helps busy moms find balance. She also
publishes a free weekly scrapbooking newsletter, featuring best of the net
design ideas and advanced techniques: http://www.momscape.com/scrapbooking
And her online scrapbooking boutique features gorgeous kits and papers:
http://www.momscape.com/scrapbooking/scrapbooking-supply