When it feels like you have no time to just pause and breathe- that’s when you need it the most. Notice if you are holding any tension in your eyebrows, jaw, neck, shoulders, back, or mind, and if so, perhaps you can invite these parts of you to soften. If it feels comfortable for you, take a deep breath in and a slow breath out before continuing to read this post.
Here are some simple ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:
Set an intention for the day while brushing your teeth in the morning. While washing your hands, think to yourself: “I wash my hands and I wash my mind”, and consider this as a moment of transition, a mental reset. Plant your feet or get more comfortable in your seat, unclench your jaw, soften your shoulders and belly while washing the dishes.
Inhale and think: “I’m receiving what I need”, exhale and think: “I’m releasing what I don’t” when you’re waiting in line at the grocery store. See if you can identify 3 things you’re grateful for while preparing or eating food. Sing your heart out or dance while doing laundry or waiting at a traffic light. Adjust your posture to help your body feel more supported while vacuuming the floor, possibly play around with pairing the motions with your breath.
Try humming, singing or whistling your favorite tune to help shift your mood. All of these techniques can help transform mundane moments into sweet pockets of pleasure and presence. Play around with different ways to weave mindful moments into your day- and tell us what helps you whistle while you work!
