Emotional intelligence is an important predictor of resilience in the midst of stress, productive interpersonal relationships, genuine happiness and overall well-being. Even the most positive and optimistic people will inevitably experience personal and professional setbacks and challenges. It depends on how quickly we recover from these setbacks and how much baggage we carry around with us. Our resilience is also linked to our ability to keep a clear head and remain calm in times of challenge and uncertainty. Our Spa Personality this month, Mia Kyricos, has kindly chosen the theme of the month.
Interview
What tools do you use for positive affirmations and to nurture positive thinking?
I’m a big fan of journaling and do it most mornings before I start my day, turn on the news or look at my phone. I find there is great power and freedom in simply writing down all the thoughts that are floating around in your head and being sure to end with what I’m most grateful for, even if I’m not feeling so positive that day. This act has become a ritual for me – the only time I’m truly alone with my thoughts – and it really helps to clear the mind and prepare for a great, new day.
Do you take “time out” to renew and prioritize work-life balance (apart from the spa)?
YES. I try to do something every work day after journaling – usually a walk, hike, bike ride or yoga class – to get the blood pumping and the body going. On particularly stressful days, I take a 10-minute “time out” with Headspace (the meditation app) that I have on my phone, and I really try not to check emails before breakfast or after dinner. In terms of work-life balance, I consciously try to prioritize the important things in life (e.g. personal relationships) over the urgent (e.g. work commitments). And I’m all for taking vacations and enjoying birthdays and holidays to the fullest!
What is your favorite spa treatment?
It’s a tie (who can decide on one?!). I love a deep tissue massage that pays special attention to my feet (my favorite part of any massage), and there’s nothing like a good WATSU treatment (I think I was a fish in a past life).
Things to know about you
I grew up hunting, fishing and gardening on the coast of Maine. As a result, I have a great respect for nature and where my food comes from and am very resourceful when it comes to growing, gathering or even harvesting it.
