Every Thursday morning, an alert shows up on my phone reminding me to go on a walk for inspiration for my blog, if something hasn’t already popped up that week. I took my walk that day and it may have been one of the first walks in a very long time where I got home and realized I didn’t make a note of anything.
Even though I had completely forgotten about my blog mission, usually I will see something along the way that I feel compelled to write about because it made me think, laugh, or experience a sense of wonder.
Was I present on the walk? What had I been thinking about? Where were the gifts?!
Mentally, I retraced my steps to see what I could recall. The main thing that I remembered was how cold it was. It was only 28° that morning, but super cold or not, I needed to pound the pavement and breathe fresh air.
I also remembered thinking about my breathing during the walk, trying to make sure I breathed in and out through my nose while keeping my mouth shut so I wouldn’t end up with a chest cold.
Although I didn't see a particular lesson or have a big spiritual download, I was actually very present with myself (and the cold temps!) and refreshed when it was over. In hindsight, a clear mind was my gift and a nice reprieve from the mental hamster wheel I often find myself on.
Focusing on breathing is always a great way to silence never-ending thoughts and just be. Another easy way to be mindful is to notice where our feet are—to literally tune into our feet and make sure our bodies, minds and spirits are there too.
I can’t think of a better wish to send you than mindfulness, as we enter the final week of December.
Many will be celebrating Christmas and others will be wrapping up other holiday festivities. The stores, restaurants and streets will be crowded and soon enough, we’ll slide right into the New Year. It will be easy to lose ourselves in the shuffle if we're not "gone" already.
These are busy times indeed so we must look for the quiet moments to sustain and renew ourselves. If alone time is eluding us, we can always look to our feet to become grounded once again, regardless of what’s going on around us.
"Stay Connected to Your Feet"
Use this quick mindfulness exercise, sitting or standing:
Look at your feet, wiggle your toes and feel the surface your feet are touching (socks, shoes, floor, couch etc). Walk your focus up your body and stop once you get to your chest. Put a hand over your heart, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Continue to notice your breath and repeat any of the following mantras which feel right:
• Here I am
• Breathe
• I have all I need
• Just be
• Thank you
Take a few more deep breaths and reenter the moment with renewed calmness and intention to stay present for whatever comes next. Even if you can only spare two to three minutes, this small gift to yourself will make a big impact on your serenity. Repeat as often as necessary!
Wishing each one of you peace, joy and an abundance of gifts as we wrap up 2019.
