ELLECANADA.COM 81
“I recently deactivated my personal Instagram account,
which has resulted in me spending less time on my phone
(obviously), but I am surprised at what a huge difference
it has made. I’m less distracted throughout the day,
I’m more productive and I feel more present. While I love
Instagram and still use it for work, it feels good to take
a break and unplug.”- Bunny Ghatrora, co-founder, Blume
IF YOU HAVE 5 MINUTES...
Instead of scrolling Insta, take 300 seconds in
the morning and 300 more before bed and
jot down answers to questions like “What
will make this day great?” “What can I ac-
complish today?” or “What am I grateful
for?” suggests Stefanie Kersta, co-founder of
Toronto meditation centre Hoame. If you’re
not feeling Zadie Smith-level inspiration, pick
up The Five-Minute Journal, which will walk
you through mood-boosting writing exercises.IF YOU HAVE 10 MINUTES...
You already know meditation is good for
mindfulness and reducing anxiety, but know-
ing where to start is another thing. Next time,
do a full body scan: Think about each part
of your body, from the tips of your toes to the
top of your head, and relax every inch as you
go. Even if your mind wanders to that cutebarista who smiled at you, just try to refocus
on the present—trying is a good thing.IF YOU HAVE 30 MINUTES...
Schedule a healthy hang like a workout or
meditation class with your crew. (A strong
support system has been linked to a longerand happier life.) Well BYND in Toronto of-
fers the 25-minute Best Friend Acupuncture,
so you can relieve stress while you catch up
on who just hooked up in your friend group.IF YOU HAVE 60 MINUTES...
Get active by taking a walk or strapping on
some Rollerblades. (Hey, all things ’90s are
trending.) New research shows that an hour
of any kind of exercise can improve moderate
depression and anxiety.IF YOU HAVE 24 HOURS...
You don’t need to go on a week-long silent
retreat to find a little serenity—just score an
invitation to a friend’s cottage, suggests Kersta.
Life at the dock is more chill, and you’ll get a
boost from the fresh air and activity. Bonus:
You’ll be more unplugged because of the
terrible reception. CARLI WHITWELL What will make
my day easier?
Three inspiring entrepreneurs
on the habit we should all kick ASAP.“I stopped being attached to my phone and work emails
by dedicating specific blocks of time to my well-being.
I became more energized, refreshed and present with
my family and friends.”- Noura Sakkijha, co-founder and CEO, Mejuri
“For many years, I believed that for something to be
great, it needed to be perfect, but my mindset has shifted
dramatically. I now know that striving for perfection can
be both crippling and counterproductive. Today my focus
is on the success of completing tasks to the best of my
ability. Being done is far better than being perfect.”- Jodi Kovitz, founder and CEO, #movethedial
HOW AM I
SUPPOSED TO
CHILL WHEN I’M
BASICALLY TOO
BUSY TO BREATHE?
These genius tricks can help
you slow down no matter
how little free time you
have in your iCal.“WHAT WILL MAKE MY DAY EASIER?” PATRICIA KAROUNOS