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Everyday Mindfulness

I think our society puts a lot of emphasis on maximum effort and charging ahead. Whether it’s business, relationships, or sports—have you ever noticed that the more force something, the more difficult it can be to achieve? Clear thinking can’t possibly happen and good decisions can’t be made unless you—pause—and be present and mindful in that stillness. Much like golf, the most efficient way forward is to let go, release the tension, and stay calm.

It’s common to slip into a semi-conscious state when doing activities such as walking, driving or weightlifting—the body is moving but the mind is thinking about something different altogether. When this happens, you move away from the present moment, away from the direct experience of life.

Most people rarely think about how they hold their body. But the ability to tune into the way your body moves, will allow you to do everything with more grace, strength and balance.

The body is very wise: it often tells us how we are, even before it becomes obvious to us mentally. Unfortunately we’re so caught up in thought, that we hardly feel anything anymore. Our life takes place in the head.

Try this mindfulness exercise:

Take a deep breath in through the nose, and out through the mouth. As you breathe out, close your eyes. Notice how your body feels. Starting at the top of the head, gently scan down through the body, noticing what feels comfortable and what feels uncomfortable. Does that area feel relaxed or tense? Energetic or tired? Feel the weight of your body on the chair or standing on the ground.