Unplug and Breathe

It is estimated that the average American is exposed to over 5,000 media images per day. With 24 hours per day, let’s say about 16 hours awake… that means we are roughly exposed to over 313 media images per hour. Most of these are trying to tell us what to be - how to be - when to be be. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and pressures of this world. We often miss out on what life is truly about and the beauty in each moment. We can find ourselves grumpy, stressed, and overwhelmed… not representing our character and true beauty.

How would our day change if we started each morning unplugged with 10 minutes of meditation? In my mind, that 10 minutes would impact my time preparing - making sure my eyeliner is straight - and walking my puppy. Waking up 10 minutes early isn’t going to make that much difference in our sleep itself. If we use those extra waking minutes to focus on our purpose, outlook, and ourself… our entire day can change. We won’t feel as drained and we are more equipped to combat whatever pressures may come our way.

You can use this newfound time to journal, do a devotional, read, or even sit on the porch and drink coffee. Notice I did not say scroll through your Facebook feed, check Instagram, or read the news. This time is about you feeling centered, relaxed, and intentionally investing in yourself so that your true beauty is able to light the world on fire.

I am very guilty of trying to pack too much into a single day, but I find that when I take just 10 minutes to focus on myself, unplug and breathe… I am able to be a much better Amanda throughout the day. It’s not being selfish; it’s allowing yourself to charge up so that you can better serve others. Without this time, you’re much more likely to run the day stressed and off kilter because your true beauty isn’t being ignited in the morning.

Today, I challenge you to unplug and breathe for just 10 minutes each morning. Do something you haven’t done in forever, write out your feelings, enjoy your coffee a bit more, and celebrate all that you are. Your beautiful heart will enjoy this time of rest and be more equipped to shine for the entire world to see.

Redefining Beauty Worldwide,

Amanda Moreno

Miss International 2016