It's important to set aside 'quiet' time for yourself each and everyday, where you are free from distractions. I remember when I was younger this was something that we were often reminded of in a classroom. This was something well-enforced throughout elementary school, and when approaching middle school became lessons taught on "coping" mechanisms to help moderate the stress of everyday life.
Looking back I couldn't have ever fathomed the technology that we have today, and how far it would inhibit the human evolution and our interactions with others. I often have "old moments", even at such a young age, where I realize that although technology is a huge part of our lives, it adds the the already monotonous stressors that preexist without said distraction.
Why is this all important? Despite the fact that many of us find down time throughout our day, we tend to abuse it, and therefore ourselves. Think of your body as the same iphone that is probably glued to your hands all day. What happens when the storage space becomes limited or the technology becomes more advanced? It slows down, right? You're body isn't much different in the sense that in order to feel 'new' again, it needs to have enforced time free of any demands.
Today, I challenge you to allow yourself just ten minutes of "mind space."
Keep these things in mind before getting started. I am sure that you'll find it a challenge the first few days, beyond that you might just find yourself looking forward to the much needed "me" time:
Find a spot that won't distract you. A few places I would love to offer as suggestions:
A park in the neighborhood. The beach. The roof-deck. The quad on campus.The library, even.
You would be surprised at how relaxing the Library can be when you bring no ulterior agenda!
Put away any and all distractions.
This includes any and all technology: no TV, cell phones, radios, iPads etc.
Take a minute. Close your eyes, breathe in deeply and just let out a sigh, as though it were for relief.
Focus on your breathing at first.
From there start bringing more awareness to thoughts that might be coming to the front of your mind.
Bring awareness to these thoughts or feelings. Recognize them. Address them.
Once you have addressed these thoughts, any ill feelings, anxiety even, should be absolved, if not greatly reduced.
Relax.When you've come to a place where you feel like a weight has been lifted, continue about your day.
Oh and congratulations, that right there is the power of meditation and relaxation!
Looking back I couldn't have ever fathomed the technology that we have today, and how far it would inhibit the human evolution and our interactions with others. I often have "old moments", even at such a young age, where I realize that although technology is a huge part of our lives, it adds the the already monotonous stressors that preexist without said distraction.
Why is this all important? Despite the fact that many of us find down time throughout our day, we tend to abuse it, and therefore ourselves. Think of your body as the same iphone that is probably glued to your hands all day. What happens when the storage space becomes limited or the technology becomes more advanced? It slows down, right? You're body isn't much different in the sense that in order to feel 'new' again, it needs to have enforced time free of any demands.
Today, I challenge you to allow yourself just ten minutes of "mind space."
Keep these things in mind before getting started. I am sure that you'll find it a challenge the first few days, beyond that you might just find yourself looking forward to the much needed "me" time:
Find a spot that won't distract you. A few places I would love to offer as suggestions:
A park in the neighborhood. The beach. The roof-deck. The quad on campus.The library, even.
You would be surprised at how relaxing the Library can be when you bring no ulterior agenda!
Put away any and all distractions.
This includes any and all technology: no TV, cell phones, radios, iPads etc.
Take a minute. Close your eyes, breathe in deeply and just let out a sigh, as though it were for relief.
Focus on your breathing at first.
From there start bringing more awareness to thoughts that might be coming to the front of your mind.
Bring awareness to these thoughts or feelings. Recognize them. Address them.
Once you have addressed these thoughts, any ill feelings, anxiety even, should be absolved, if not greatly reduced.
Relax.When you've come to a place where you feel like a weight has been lifted, continue about your day.
Oh and congratulations, that right there is the power of meditation and relaxation!
