06Jan 2022 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

How to Live in a Seemingly Small World

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I find that with the restrictions imposed on us during COVID, my world is shrinking to the size it was when my daughter was born. Back then, we were living in the wilderness, and I was the only person taking care of the baby. I could not leave the house or have any time to myself for a seemingly long time. I learned how to carve out a space in my life that would hold who I was, so I would not loose myself. And it worked. For example, instead of going for long walks or do the outdoor chores (like getting water from the creek), started Yoga, which I could do inside with the baby around. I also reframed – that is, give different meaning – to seemingly tedious…
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16Dec 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

Emotional Contagion

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You might have noticed that you are affected by the emotions of people around you. If someone expresses worry, frustration or anger, it will be picked up by you and others around. The same principle applies to positive emotions. Social Psychologist Elaine Hatfield calls this phenomenon emotional contagion. If you read about it you will find out that humans need the pack and from an evolutionary perspective, it has been safer to play along with the group rather than being left alone in the wild. I want to focus on an empowering aspect: Every person can be that catalyst! If other people’s emotions affect ME, then my emotions affect OTHERS. Isn’t that wonderful? Here is a current example from my life: This morning, I was walking to the school bus…
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12Nov 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

The World of Little Things: Seeds

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Again, I was walking home from the school bus, when my gaze fell upon a little milkweed seed on the ground. It was glistering with dew drops. While the general scene, albeit sunny and not too cold, was rather brown – mind you, it is November and nature supposed to be brown – that little seed was a sparkling messenger of life and hope. Have you ever thought of all the beauty we might miss, by focusing on the big picture only?
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08Nov 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

Happiness is Here, Now

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"Happiness is a Value, not a Goal!" That means, happiness is not something to look for, to try to reach, a goal, but a value, something to believe in, a moment-to-moment way of being! Does this sound familiar? - “I will be happy when _______” (fill the blank). What did you wish for as a child? – Your next birthday gift? As a teenager? – Your driver’s licence? As a young adult? – A good job? / A wonderful partner? – And once you got what you were wishing for, how long did your happiness last before you filled in the blank with something new, a new condition for your happiness? What are you longing for or chasing today? – Do you think this ____ (fill the blank) will make…
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05Nov 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

The World of Little Things: Ice Crystals

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We had a few frosty nights. In the mornings, on the way to the school bus, I keep finding the most beautiful ice crystals. I keep thinking how intricate they are. I realize that the world does not end where my attention ends. And I am in awe. What do you think? What’s a seemingly little thing that you were in awe of? Please share a comment or a photo!
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25Oct 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

The Benefits of Laughing

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What makes you laugh? –  For me, it is quite frequently my husband, who has a gift of seeing and pointing out the humor in things that I sometimes take (too) seriously. Laughter is beneficial for our physical and mental health. It can lower our blood pressure and improve concentration. In an emotional way, laughing can it can alleviate stress and anxiety. Even spiritually, laughter can help us feel more connected and whole. You don’t feel like laughing? – Even so, try doing it anyway, because our body does not know the difference between fake and real laughter. Please share what make you laugh happily!
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21Oct 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

Grounding Myself In Nature

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Much has been said about how our modern life tends to create a disconnect with nature. In my coaching (and in my life) I seek to keep things simple: I need nature to survive: It gives me food, it gives me air, it gives me space to move and space to experience my connection with all other living things. When I get really calm I experienced that I AM PART of this wonderful world. What does it look like for you when you feel grounded? - Please drop me a note!
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16Oct 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

Mindfulness in Motion

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Mindfulness is commonly understood as paying attention to what is happening in one’s mind, body and surroundings, with a focus on the present moment, and in a curious, compassionate and non-judgmental state. What does mindfulness do to us? Mindfulness improves our well-being. Focusing on the here and now makes it less likely to get caught up in worries about the future or nostalgia over the past. It also improves our mental and our physical health. One technique is Mindful Walking: The ability to walk sets us apart from most animals on earth. It is a defining factor of being human. Most of the time, we might fail to see walking as something special. When you walk mindfully, pay attention to the sensations of your body: How do your feet feel,…
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10Oct 2021 by Manuela Zeitlhofer

Gratefully Changing Perspective

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Humans have a hard time focusing on two emotions at the same time, especially when they are conflicting ones. When we have a problem, and we focus on the problem, we tend to see the obstacles rather than the smoother path ahead. I challenge you (that is what I do as a coach, with your permission) to find 5 things you are grateful for, right now. And then think about each one for a minute and appreciate it. Feel free to share any of your revelations!
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