Pause

 

The lead-up to Christmas is a busy time and we can get caught up in a lot of doing. We can look after ourselves by consciously deciding to take regular pauses throughout the day. By stopping what we are doing we have an opportunity to simply be, come back to the moment, observe what is happening, and then steady and nourish ourselves with a few gentle breaths.

Have a go today: When you notice that you are on a hamster-wheel of activity, in body or mind, consciously choose to pause for a few moments. Think of yourself as a witness. Simply watch this moment, without trying to change it at all. Notice your surroundings. What do you see, what can you hear? You can also tune into sensations of touch, smell, and taste. Then turn towards how you feel. Notice what’s going on in the body, in the mind. Take a few mindful breaths, and then, when you are ready, carry on with the next activity of your day.