Slow Down

“in every color and circumstance, may the eyes be open for what comes.” - Ghalib

One of the exercises in mindfulness for stress reduction that I find hugely beneficial is to do an activity more slowly than I would normally.  For example, this can range from eating (I often eat too fast), making a cup of tea or coffee, going on a walk and taking more time to driving more slowly.

I find this exercise particularly helpful when I have a busy day and begin to feel overwhelmed.  By slowing down, I notice my breath change and I become more aware of my body and how I am holding myself.  As I write now, I am aware of my fingers typing and how I need to alter my posture so that I don’t hurt my back.  My feet somehow feel more firmly on the ground and connected to the earth.  I then feel the ground supporting me and I write from a place of connection. 

“Our thoughts can tell us all sorts of mistruths and divert us from taking a breath and enjoying the feeling of space that this can allow.”

Rachel Podger

This awareness gives me a sense of purpose and I feel more open and appreciative of this moment in time.  It reminds me of the people in my life who support and love me and in turn I remember those who have passed, my heart lifts and all is well in this moment. I feel uplifted and calmer and this sense of presence and stillness gives me energy to continue my busy day.

I am once again in awe of how a simple exercise can have such a huge impact on my energy levels. Whatever is going on outside of me, as I come back to the beauty of the present moment I am restored and calmed having taken time to slow down.  Our thoughts can tell us all sorts of mistruths and divert us from taking a breath and enjoying the feeling of space that this can allow.  I highly recommend it as a tool for doing more in times of stress and anxiety.

Be open to the experience of doing something more slowly, the future is so much more possible after taking a pause.

“Where is the man who can attain to this non doing?” Chuang Tzu