Happy Summer! I hope that this season is sparking some joy in your life. Although summer is often a time of fun vacations and fun outdoor adventures, sometimes it can feel like we are soooo busy! Busy isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but maybe we have the opportunity to be more mindful in our busyness. Are you so busy that you don’t even remember what you did yesterday? Or maybe your busyness is filled with memories of the warmth of the sun on your face, the scents of food cooking on the grill, the taste of some sweet wine, or the sites of the endless ocean. One thing I know for sure after this pandemic year is that I want to place more value on the time.
When you practice mindfulness when not busy, it helps set you up for success to practice it during those extra busy times. Be engaged and present in the life you live - don’t let life pass you by. When you are alone, be there. When you are with the ones you love, be there. Be there with the bright smiles… the belly laughs, the rolling tears… the painful sadness… the fears. Be there with the love. Be there when you’re sitting on the couch, be there when you’re doing the dishes, be there for the regular days and the extraordinary days.
If you’re looking for some activities to help you practice mindfulness, read on…
Restorative Yoga - Restorative Yoga gives you the opportunity to have your body fully supported and comfortable so that you can practice mindfulness. As you are practicing, notice when your mind wanders and try to bring your focus back to your breath. Rather than judging yourself for anxious thoughts or a distracted mind, simply notice your thoughts and allow them to pass by. Join me for a Restorative Yoga class or check out how you can practice at home here.
Mindful Breathing - This practice gives you a chance to place your mind on something you always have with you, the breath. Internally say to yourself which action of breathing you’re doing. When you breathe in, silently tell yourself “I am breathing in” and as you breathe out, tell yourself “I am breathing out”. Set a timer so you don’t have to keep track of time. After one minute, see how you feel. Do a minute a few days this week. Next, week try for two minutes. Increase from there as you like.
Walking Meditation - Get outside and leave your phone behind! It’s so important to step away from our screens and place our eyes and energy on the beauty of the earth. Invite your mind and body to be together out in nature. Place your mind on the sensation of each step you take. Notice how your arms move when you walk. Feel the breeze on your skin. Use your sense of site to take in the colors of the scenery. Notice whatever you notice. My favorite local places to walk or hike are Baker Park and Gambrill State Park
Yoga Nidra - Although the intent of Yoga Nidra is more about initiating your relaxation response than mindfulness, the experience of deep rest and relaxation helps reduce anxiety. When you are less anxious, you create more space to be mindful. You can download my free guided Yoga Nidra practice here.