Maggie McInnes
Today’s world is fast-paced, productivity focused, and stressful -- it’s no surprise humans often feel run-down and overwhelmed. While we may not be able to control the factors that cause undue stress (traffic, air pollution, project deadlines, and in-laws, to name a few), we can upgrade our ability to deal with the tension that they create. Here, I’ve offered five strategies and practices to implement into your daily life. With discipline in practicing these actions you will feel more at ease and in flow, therefore feeling more equipped when life gets a little intense. Try one practice over several days until it becomes part of your daily wellness routine, then introduce another!
Source: https://the-wellness-tribe.com/
Five minutes of morning meditation. Start by sitting in a quiet place first thing in the morning. Set your timer for five minutes and close your eyes. Focus your attention on the area between your nose and your mouth. Become acutely aware of the sensation of your breath in this area of your body. When your mind drifts away, gently guide yourself back to your breath.
At the same time each day, take a moment to check in with your posture. Notice if you are holding tension in your jaw and shoulders. If so, release it. Take three intentional breaths fully inhaling and exhaling.
Take a moment to notice your natural settings. This can be from your office window, or on a majestic mountain top. Practice this as often as you can remember to. Become acutely aware of the colors and shapes of the plants, trees, and flowers, notice the clouds and sky, and acknowledge the weather.
Set aside 5-10 minutes in your day to jot down whatever is on your mind. You need no commitment to ever read your notes; just simply allow your mind to dump its contents and create more space for presence.
As many times a day as you can become aware, notice your mind. Is it constantly chattering away? Does it play the same ideas, thoughts, concerns, and lists over and over? Notice that through this observation, you’ve just freed yourself from its incessant chatter. Just begin to see how often your mind becomes a busy-bee, and simply notice that through this practice it will relax and allow you to be more present.
Dr. Maggie McInnes is a Colorado native and vitalistic chiropractor who has an immense passion for living life presently, wholeheartedly, and healthfully.
