#mindfulness tools

Today is the third Monday of January, which has come to be known as 'Blue Monday' - the most depressing day of the year 😔While the logic behind it may be questionable, it stands to reason that some of us might be feeling down right now. ⁠⁠

We've got a few things you can do to slow down and take your mind off things, including our Viewing Art Mindfully series, Slow Art videos, online jigsaw puzzles, and our new Museum Secret's podcast series. You can also explore our Collections Online, and even browse through a digital exhibition. We hope that each of these might help you to find a moment of peace and joy in your day, and to continue to enjoy our collections from afar, until we are able to welcome you again. ⁠⁠ Find all of these resources on our Ashmolean from Home page here:⁠ ashmolean.org/ashmoleanfromhome

Here is a selection of some of our favourite blue objects for you to feast your eyes upon 🔵

Fritware tile from Turkey, 16th century⁠

Model hedgehog from an Egyptian Tomb at Abydos, New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty c.1567-1320 BC⁠

We’ve been really enjoying this sensorimotor psychotherapy book by Pat Ogden & Janina Fisher. They’re both from Bessel van der Kolk’s Treatment Center so I shouldn’t be surprised that it’s good stuff? The two exercises below have really helped us notice and deal with intrusive thoughts and their impact on our body. Totes recommend. We did have to do them individually and as a group to really capture the building blocks of experience: this is normal for patients with DID, So Sayeth The Book.

-Swirly Pupper

A Growing Trend in Wellness and Mindfulness

In recent years, chakra pendants have become increasingly popular among individuals interested in wellness, mindfulness, and personal growth. Once considered a niche accessory, these pendants are now commonly seen in everyday life, from workplaces and fitness centers to meditation spaces and social gatherings. But what is driving this growing interest?

More Than Just a Fashion Statement

One of the main reasons people are drawn to chakra pendants is their symbolic meaning. Inspired by the ancient concept of the seven chakras, these accessories represent balance, self-awareness, and a connection to personal well-being. Many wearers appreciate having a meaningful reminder of their wellness goals throughout the day.

The Appeal of Holistic Living

As more people explore meditation, yoga, and mindfulness practices, accessories that align with these lifestyles have gained attention. Chakra pendants fit naturally into this trend, offering a simple and stylish way to express an interest in holistic living. Their versatility allows them to be worn casually or during relaxation and meditation sessions.

Why the Chakra Pendant from Metaphysical Products Stands Out

The Chakra Pendant from Metaphysical Products combines symbolic design with everyday convenience. Crafted for regular wear, it serves as a practical accessory for individuals who value mindfulness, personal development, and wellness-inspired products. Its compact design makes it suitable for home, work, travel, or meditation practices.

Final Thoughts

At Life By Design Therapy™, we often meet clients who believe mindfulness is something you have to “get right.” They assume it means sitting perfectly still, silencing their thoughts, or instantly accessing calm. And when that doesn’t happen, they worry they’re failing the practice.

But the truth we share often is this: mindfulness isn’t about controlling your mind or emotion.

It’s about noticing what’s happening inside you with curiosity instead of judgment.

In session, it sounds like:

“I just realized my shoulders are tense.”

“I’m feeling overwhelmed, and I didn’t notice until now.”

“My breath got shallow when I started talking about that memory.”

Those moments matter. They’re signs that the nervous system is speaking, and that you’re tuning in instead of pushing through.

Mindfulness doesn’t always look like long meditations or perfect focus. Sometimes it’s a brief pause before reacting. A deeper breath during a stressful moment. Or simply naming the emotion you feel without trying to change it.

These small internal shifts are powerful forms of regulation, especially at the start of a new year when many people feel overstimulated, disconnected, or pressured to “start strong.”

If you’re hoping to feel more grounded, present, and connected to yourself as you move into this season, our therapists can help. We use somatic and mindfulness-based approaches that support nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and deeper self-understanding.

Because mindfulness isn’t a performance. It’s a practice of coming back to yourself, one moment at a time.