Step #1 was Attending to the Breath.
Step #2 is creating an INFORMAL PRACTICE
“Informal practice is a way of cultivation awareness and accept and within our every day activities and tasks. there are many tings we do regularly on autopilot: get out of bed, feed our pets, water the plants, take a shower, brush our teeth, prepare food, eat food, drive, run errands, etc. While these activities certainly don’t require our total awareness, we can begin to practice awareness while doing them.” (MIRAVAL)
“This simple infusion of mindfulness has many benefits. Our ability to focus is increased, the body/mind connection is strengthened, the mind slows down and the body does not accumulate unnecessary tension. We appreciate small details and we notice more about how we experience what we are doing.” (MIRAVAL)
So, again, how do You begin? Here are some ? ideas for you.
• “Notice how you get out of bed. Are you anxious, rested, lethargic or feel unrested? Acknowledge whatever state you are aware of. Before rising, spend a moment stretching and connecting with your breath. Roll out of bed instead of sitting straight up.” I have been doing this for a while and the difference is amazing!
• Notice your body sensations when you are in line. Use these stopping points as an opportunity to collect yourself and rest. Focus on relaxing unnecessary tension in areas like your feet, pelvis, lower back, jaw, forehead and/or eyes.
• Focus on your breath. Bring awareness to it. Don’t force it, just notice it and guide it back to a space where you are breathing fully again.
• Use your senses. Feel, taste, smell, listen to & see whatever is around you at any given moment.
• Pay attention to how you react to a person, space or situation. This is a huge one for me as an empath. Notice if your body is tightening, if your heart is racing. Take appropriate action.
• I like to put on sound bowl music when I am arranging flowers & watering plants as a way to bring intention to my task.
• I leave my phone at home when I go for a walk with the dogs & try to spot at least 5 things in nature.
