Mindfulness

Over the last two weeks, I have been focusing on eating mindfully and being present with my meal. No working, no multitasking, no upsetting conversations while eating. I sit quietly and focus on my food. I enjoy each bite and chew my food thoroughly. I find putting my fork down in between bites helps me focus on chewing. I notice that I'm breathing - full, deep breaths. Some days are more challenging than others and I want to look at my phone, or email or even flip through a cookbook, but for the most part, I stay present. This practice is teaching me how often I reach for a distraction and how much I hurry to get to the next thing - for what? 

After my meal, I sit or lie down for 5 minutes and then walk or move mindfully for another 5 minutes. Sitting after eating has been the hardest part, but setting my timer helps, as does focusing on my breath. Interestingly, this practice is creating more space in my life.

​It's prompting me to slow down and become more aware.

I tend to reach for my phone and listen to a podcast or manta music whenever I go for a run or walk. Yesterday, I left my phone at home and walked for an hour with my pup, Ollie. I felt more connected, more at ease and less hurried. Ollie seemed more relaxed too. It was a  refreshing and peaceful experience.