Easy ways to add mindfulness to your day

Mindfulness is a buzzword these days and we ALL know we should be doing it...all the cool kids are. Does that phrase still work? Chances are if you are not being mindful already you’re not really sure how to or feel you are too busy. It’s a challenge for me too. Say no more. I’ve put together a list that will help you weave some mindfulness to your daily tasks. Practice making them part of your day like brushing your teeth.

Here’s an explained list but be sure to also see this quick PDF version so you can screen-shot it, download and print or hell, pin it on Pinterest. (Must admit I’m a Pinterest girl) Try to implement it during the next month to make some of them habitual.

JUST BREATHE. - Ahh, of course this is my first one. Try this Pilates inspired breathing exercise to reset...at your desk, still lying in bed, before a workout class, or any time you feel stress or anxiety. Breathe in through your nose for 5 counts and then blow as much air as you can through your mouth for five counts.

WATER CHALLENGE - Find a large vessel that you love. Ex: a 32 oz/900 ml chic water bottle that’s you favorite color and feels like it really shows your personal style. You will be more likely to get attached to it and carrie it everywhere. Figure out how much water you are supposed to drink a day (half your weight (lbs) in ounces). With your large bottle that should be 2-3. Challenge yourself to drink one before lunch and the rest throughout the day. 

ONE THING AT A TIME - Multi-tasking isn’t always a good thing. When you’re eating, just eat. When you’re checking emails, just do that. I bet you’ll be surprised how often you aren’t practicing this...especially now with smart phones. Anyone else have a love hate relationship with that thing?

LISTEN BETTER - Make sure when someone is talking to you that you aren’t only thinking about the next thing you are going to say or story that you are going to tell. Listen fully to what they are then pause and contemplate your response. This also deepens your connection with others as well as yourself. Cool.

SENSES CHECK - What are two things you can touch, taste, hear and smell right this very second? Close your eyes. We’ll wait.

MINDFUL MOVEMENT - 10-15 minutes is all you need. Walk barefoot on the ground feeling every step. Do 15 minutes of yoga or Pilates which are exercises designed to connect the mind and the body. Here’s a link to a few quick Pilates videos.

Doesn’t this all sound good and something you know will feel good if you just remembered? Well, I’m dedicating my September to this exercise and I hope you will too. School is back in and the holiday season is around the corner. Now is the time to connect with yourself and get these mindful habits in place. Follow me on IG or FB if you don’t already to stay accountable. I’ll be doing check-ins on these mindful habits throughout the month. I’ll be doing it right there with you and would love to know you’re right there with me.

XO, Rachel