It's always with you. It shows you how you feel, and it affects the way you feel.
Of course I'm talking about your body.
Your body offers many opportunities to anchor yourself in the current moment. The feeling in your feet when you are walking, the tension and relaxation of the muscles in your face. And always, your breath.
Use these opportunities to come back to the present moment. To come back to what matters most.
Conscious movements can bring you into a (happy) flow-state. Dancing, pilates, yoga, martial arts, and many more require a conscious mind-body connection. Practicing this helps your mindfulness and physical health.
And finally, connecting with your body helps you to recognize negative mind states sooner. You feel if you're tired or hungry, sad or angry. And in noticing those feelings, you can acknowledge them and let them go.
Live the actual moment. Only this actual moment is life. – Thích Nhất Hạnh
If you're doing any physical sport, it will benefit from mindfulness. Whether you're doing yoga or tennis, visiting the gym, or going for a run. Pay special attention to your movements and to your breath. Recognize unnecessary tensions and let them go.
Reading Recommendations
Meeting the Needs of a Stressed Generation – Stop.Breathe.Be
“‘Our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future…’ Nelson Mandela spoke those words at a march in Pretoria, South Africa, in November of 1997. Twenty-two years later, those words are just as true. As leaders, teachers, parents and, quite frankly, just humans, it is our duty to lead them towards the acknowledgement of…”
What triggers that feeling of being watched? – Mind Hacks
“You feel somebody is looking at you, but you don’t know why. The explanation lies in some intriguing neuroscience and the study of a strange form of brain injury. Something makes you turn and see someone watching you. Perhaps on a busy train, or at night, or when you’re strolling through the park. How did…”
Paper beats app: How this software company uses analog tools to get things done
“Now that we spend all our time on screens, using pen and paper for task management—or really any reason—can help connect you back to reality.”
Weekly Mindfulness Practice
Start at the top of your head and gently scan down towards your toes. Don’t try to change anything in your body while scanning. Only notice.
End Note
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Have a great week
Simon
PS: If you found an article you think others might like, and that fits this newsletter, I’d love it if you write me an email. Just reply!