Skip to main content

XIAO SHUÌ



Today, I discovered the joy of *Xiao Shuì*, the art of taking a short nap. I've always been someone who struggles with sleep.


March 22nd

I've started incorporating *XIAO SHUÌ* into my daily routine. I take a short nap after lunch, and it helps me power through the afternoon. I've noticed that I'm more focused, more productive, and more patient.

I've also started to appreciate the beauty of *Xiao Shuì*. It's not just about sleeping; it's about taking a break and listening to your body. It's about giving yourself permission to rest and recharge.


March 29th

Today, I had a busy day ahead of me, but I was feeling exhausted. I decided to take a *Xiao Shuì* nap, and it was exactly what I needed. I slept for 30 minutes, and when I woke up, I felt like a new person.

 It's about self-care. It's about taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. It's about being kind to yourself and giving yourself what you need.


April 3rd

As I reflect on my *Xiao Shuì* journey, I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned. I've learned that rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity. I've learned that taking care of myself is not selfish; it's essential.

I'm excited to continue incorporating *Xiao Shuì* into my daily routine, and I encourage others to do the same. Whether you're feeling exhausted, stressed, or overwhelmed, *Xiao Shuì* can be a powerful tool to help you recharge and refocus.


April 10th

Today, I tried something new with my *Xiao Shui* practice. I set up a peaceful and calming environment before my nap, with soft music, a comfortable blanket, and a calming essential oil diffuser. It made a huge difference! I felt like I was in a spa, and my nap was even more refreshing.


April 20th

Today, I tried practicing *Xiao Shuì* in a new location - on a hammock in the backyard. I found a comfortable spot under a tree and settled in for a 20-minute nap. The fresh air and sounds of nature made it easy to relax and fall asleep. 


April 25th

I've been experimenting with different lengths of time for my *Xiao Shuì* naps. Today, I tried a 30-minute nap, and it was amazing. I felt like I was able to tap into a deeper state of relaxation and rejuvenation.


May 10th

I've been noticing the impact of *Xiao Shuì* on my emotional well-being. I feel more calm and centered, even in the face of challenging situations. I'm able to respond more thoughtfully and intentionally, rather than reacting impulsively.


May 15th

Today, I tried incorporating some gentle stretches into my *Xiao Shuì* practice. I did some light yoga before my nap, and it helped me relax and release any tension in my body. 


May 20th

I've been thinking about how *Xiao Shuì* can be a form of self-care and self-love. By taking the time to rest and recharge, I'm showing myself that I'm worthy of care and attention. It's a powerful way to cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion.

Today, I realized the importance of consistency with my *Xiao Shuì* practice. I've been taking naps at the same time every day, and it's become a habit. My body knows when it's time to rest, and it's amazing how much more effective my naps have become.


May 30th

Today, I added a new element to my *Xiao Shuì* practice - wind chimes! I hung them outside my window, and the soft, soothing sounds they make are perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere. 


June 10th

I decided to try something new with my *Xiao Shuì* practice today - shamanic music! I found a beautiful album online, with hypnotic drums and soothing flutes. As I listened to the music, I felt like I was being guided on a journey deep within myself.


June 15th

I've found that nature sounds are particularly effective. Today, I listened to a recording of ocean waves, and it was amazing how quickly I relaxed and fell asleep. The sound of the waves was like a lullaby, soothing my mind and calming my frayed nerves.


June 20th

Today, I tried using sandalwood incense for my *Xiao Shuì* practice. The scent was incredible - so calming and grounding. I felt like I was transported to a peaceful woodland , surrounded by ancient trees. My nap was incredibly refreshing, 


June 25th

I've been experimenting with different types of incense for my *Xiao Shuì* practice, and I've found that lavender incense is particularly effective. Today, I added a few drops of lavender essential oil to my diffuser, and it was amazing how quickly I drifted off to sleep.

Over the next few days I tried using Dragon's Blood incense for my *Xiao Shuì* practice. The scent was intense and earthy, and it seemed to help me connect with my subconscious mind. I had some incredible insights during my nap, and I woke up feeling inspired and motivated

I've also been using jasmine incense for my *Xiao Shuì* practice lately, and it's been amazing. The scent is so sweet and floral, it helps me to feel more positive. Today, I added a few jasmine flowers to my tea, and it was incredible how much more relaxing my nap was.


June 27th

I had a breakthrough today with my *Xiao Shuì* practice. I realized that the key to getting the most out of my naps is to create a sense of ritual around them. So, I've started lighting a candle, burning some incense, and playing soothing music before I drift off to sleep. It's amazing how much more effective my naps have become!


June 28th

I had a conversation with a friend today about *Xiao Shuì*, and it was interesting to hear her perspective. She mentioned that she's been feeling guilty about taking naps, like she's being lazy. I shared my own experiences with *Xiao Shui*, and how it's actually helped me become more productive and focused. I hope I was able to inspire her to give it a try!


June 30th

As the month comes to a close, I'm reflecting on how *Xiao Shuì* has impacted my life. It's been a game-changer, helping me manage stress, increase productivity, and improve my overall well-being. I'm grateful for this practice, and I'm excited to continue exploring its benefits.

PIC COURTESY:PINTEREST 



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

ANAM CARA

The waves are soft and frothy. Laced with gossamer frills tenderly kissing the tips of my toes covered with the grainy sand of the rugged seashore where I'm sitting, wistful. A gust of briny breeze tousles my hair as I gaze as far as my eyes can see.  A flock of terns wheel overhead, their sharp, shrill cries punctuating the air as they dive and swoop over the surfs. A lone frigate bird , its crimson belly dazzling like a jewel skims majestically above, its long, slender wings outstretched as it rides the thermals high above the ocean. I absorb the sights and sounds of the late afternoon while absentmindedly scooping seashells beside me. As the afternoon phases, the furthest rim of the ocean is fringed in a gilded hem and the sleepy sun yawns, its dipping glow streaking the sky in a mellow tangerine and warm cherry. As I continue sitting there, the ships and yachts appear --specks of light from the portholes glimmering in the distance, reminding me of the phrase “That ship has sai...

BOKETTO

  In my quiet moments, I pause the world from its frantic pace. In that stillness, I wistfully gaze into the distance and just let things unfurl as they please. I let my thoughts flow, absorbing nothing. Internalizing nothing. And just like that, the strands of tightly woven twine untangle and the knots come loose. Today, as usual, I found myself caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily grind. I was rushing to get things done, stressing about deadlines, and feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of tasks on my to-do list. But then, I took a deliberate pause. With a deep breath, I stretched, stepped away from my desk, and walked out onto my balcony. Leaning on the railing, I looked down at the familiar lanes of my neighborhood, twirling around the corners behind the blocks of apartments.  The park and playground stood deserted at noon amid the cluster of flowering trees and surrounded by the hedges lining the curbs. I gazed at the sky, feeling the warm sun on my face and ...

ARIEL AND BLUE-BLOOD SHOES

  The waves crashed violently against the craggy mountainside and the moonlight shone on the lacy froths. As I waded through the water and stepped on the wet sand, I remembered another night which was many moons ago. The same glinting lights through the palace doorways and windows, the fireworks adorning the night sky like shooting stars and meteors. A royal celebration with all the works and the guests dressed up in their best finery and aristocratic jewelry. Of noble births they all were. Blue blooded as the matriarch had pointedly told me once.  That unholy night! That night of icy hearts and howling laughter, the echoes of cackling that followed me till I ran on wobbly legs to find my place of comfort where the land met water… Hot tears streaming down, I regretted those days when I lost my heart to a man so spineless. Had I not dragged him to the shore, he would have been a mangled mass after being torn apart by the piranhas and other monstrous maws.  How I regret…Oh!...

CHẠ̀WKHRĀW (Chxw̒kh rxw̒)

  As usual, at the dot of 8 pm, the Guzheng plays its stirring chords, the haunting notes beginning a slow sweep, rising to a powerful crescendo and alternating with a tranquil ebbing of melody surfing me along the waves of soul-stirring, yet a serene stretch of an hour every day.  I make it a point to sit right beside my dining room window to bask in this lulling sound therapy as my neighbor downstairs diligently plays on this zither, oblivious to my admiration. What a luxury it is to have a live orchestra while I savour the last meal of the day. It's a welcome distraction to the otherwise jarring squabbling of the playful neighbourhood children.  The Chạ̀wkhrāw of this– that the musical household might move one day is a foreboding thought. Foreshadowing this, deeply ingrained in me is the shattering news I had received upon returning to Singapore after an 8 month absence here.  The Ramadan festive season was fast approaching at the end of March but the apar...

HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE

The sleek steel grey landline with it's cordless handset gleams in the mid morning sunlight. It's only a fixture on the tabletop these past several years yet loved and flaunted for old times sake. Also, for the numerous times the handset had nestled in our palms. The vintage feel of it and the stronghold of memories I associate it with beats the smartphone by miles.  It has in turn been a confidante of our precious moments, some idling talk, some annoyance oh yes ! and all before Whatsapp made an entry into our lives and the poor dear was no longer in demand. The world was at our fingertips. It doesn't complain, doesn't whimper, not even a sigh, murmur or a slightest hint at a whisper of life for the past decade and more! Except… On Thursday the daylights were socked out of me! Lost in mundane chores, I had my gloved hands deep in a pile of soapy water scrubbing away at the breakfast dishes. The usual swell of silence was harshly rend by the landline from the livin...