How about sitting and closing your eyes at lunchtime?


I have had the privilege of leading mindfulness sessions in the workplace for approaching four years, during this time I have seen people embrace mindfulness and some make major changes in their lives.  It’s very rewarding to see people’s faces soften, hands relax and a sense of coming together, slowing down.  This is a time to leave behind all the constant demands of a busy life-style, to connect with your true inner-self, leaving you feel invigorated, refreshed and focussed.  A true appreciation of being a “human-being” rather than a “human-doing”.  





All too often we are caught up in our daily routines without stopping to take our lunch break – why is this?  Is something really awful going to happen if you turn away from your computer for 30 minutes or maybe even an hour.  What will happen is that your mind and body will thank you – no-one can or should work continuously.  I recognise there are lots of professions where it’s not possible to stop in the middle of a job – I’m thinking fireman, surgeons, police - in these professions it is especially important to take proper meaningful breaks when possible.  

What needs to happen in your workplace to make time and space for a regular slot to practise mindfulness?  Is this something in your control?  Can you schedule your diary to allow for a long break during the day or maybe a couple of short breaks?  If so, you could try some of the following ideas to start cultivating a mindful way of life:

  • Sit and close your eyes, check-in to see what’s here for you right now.

  • Become aware of your breath, placing your attention on each inhale and exhale.

  • Stand and feel your feet on the ground, the muscles in your legs working to allow you to stand.  Notice the tiny adjustments your body makes to allow you to be balanced on both feet.

  • Eat your lunch slowly, without doing anything else – no reading emails, talking on the phone, or chatting to colleagues.  Simply paying attention to your food – the taste, smell and colour of it.

  • Go for a walk outside in nature, paying attention to your body moving as well as to the surrounding area.  Perhaps you might notice something unusual or find a new place to explore.

 




These are just a few, quick things that will help to let go of busy thoughts and strengthen the mind-body connection.  I hope you are tempted to try some of them and start to develop a mindfulness habit.  You may also like to help me spread the goodness and kindness that comes from practising mindfulness and share this blog with friends and colleagues.   I’d also love to hear how you have added mindfulness to your day, please add comments below …


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