Vidyamala’s online course, “Mindfulness for Women: Declutter Your Mind, Simplify Your Life, Find Time to ‘Be’,” starts on March 1.
Do you often push yourself to the limit? Do you worry that taking regular breaks would mean getting less done? Many people live in a cycle of overactivity followed by periods of low energy, constantly swinging between feeling energetic and exhausted.
When we’re tired and unmotivated, we do less. Then, when we regain energy, we scramble to catch up, only to end up stressed and overworked, plunging back into exhaustion. This cycle repeats continuously, leaving us drained and with a never-ending to-do list.
Instead, consider a radical approach: take breaks before you desperately need them. We’re not talking about long naps or vacations, but simple acts like practicing mindfulness or stretching while at your desk. These small breaks can make a big difference.
Here’s a straightforward mindfulness exercise to help break this exhausting cycle. Rather than rushing through making tea or coffee, use it as a chance to practice mindfulness and find a moment of peace.
The next time you fill and boil a kettle, pay full attention to the process. Notice how heavy the kettle feels, how you fill it (through the spout or by opening the lid), and observe the water flowing in. Listen to the sounds, and if possible, reflect on the journey the water has taken to reach you, from rain in distant mountains to your tap, involving numerous workers and infrastructure.
As you place the kettle back and turn it on, be conscious of your movements. Listen to the sounds as the water heats and check in with yourself. Are you feeling impatient? Notice where this impatience manifests in your body and what it feels like.
When the kettle is nearly boiled, do you wait for it to finish or do you pour the water early? Try to be patient and wait for it to click off before you mindfully pour the water. Reflect on whether there are other daily activities you could use to practice mindfulness. Everyday mindfulness can be just as valuable as formal meditation sessions.
Finally, enjoy your cup of tea, coffee, or cocoa. You’ve earned this moment of relaxation.
For more on Mindfulness for Women: Declutter Your Mind, Simplify Your Life, Find Time to ‘Be’, join Vidyamala’s course starting on March 1.