Finding some quiet time during the day is a vital and important part of taking care of yourself. Sensing, feeling, paying attention to your body is something I try to do on a daily basis. Yes, it is hard to “fit” this in to my schedule at times, but it has become a ritual of mine that allows me to focus, center and connect to my breath and body.
You can do this anywhere you like, however I like to find a quiet place where I can let my body feel supported by the ground. I do this by laying down focusing on where I feel holding, discomfort, pain or even a sense of openness. I call this exercise connect to your breath.
Try not to think of it as something that you need to get done, but something that you find enjoyment in and that you can BE in. Find a time that works for you – morning, mid day or bedtime (or all 3 times) and focus on how you are feeling in your body at that moment – settle in for a few minutes – there isn’t a certain amount of time that is required – do what feels right for you.
-Lie on your back
-Close your eyes (this can help to tap into your breathing and focus inward)
-Let your legs be in a comfortable position (bent or straight out)
-Allow your arms to be outstretched or resting on your abdomen
-Release any holding in your neck and head allowing your chin to be soft
-Take a breath (inhale and exhale)
-Where do you feel your breath? (chest, abdomen, head?)
-Are you holding your breath?
-Where do you feel your breath and where does it stop?
-Can you bring your breath to your feet, legs, knees, thighs, hips, stomach, chest, arms, hands, fingertips, neck, jaw and head? (make small movements where you don’t feel your breath – this may help)
*Take your time there- is no right or wrong way to do this. Let your body feel grounded and connected to the earth.