Has someone ever suggested you take a walk to clear your head when you’re thinking about something irrationally?
It works, right? But have you ever considered why this advice is shared so universally?
The reason is because a little mindfulness can go a long way and the notion of distracting your own thought process can be very effective. When we get stuck in our head however, we can take ourselves to some pretty far out places.
When it comes to giving up sugar, for example, often it can feel like a downward spiral as we eventually succumb to an impossible to and fro with our minds. One block of chocolate later and you feel regretful and out of control…
Well, what if you had a toolkit to deal with these thoughts before they escalate? Here’s a discipline that you can use to not only quit sugar, but to overcome almost any overwhelming thought patterns.
All you need is your body and your breath.
When you’re working to create new lifestyle patterns, it’s inevitable you’re going to come up against challenges. So I want you to get used to utilising your breath and using simple, small movements to keep you focused and on track.
Next time you feel yourself running off with a story in your mind, try the following:
- Take yourself to a space that is semi-private – somewhere you can have dignity about moving your body and breathing deeply. Examples include (but are not limited to), a bathroom cubicle, your office, bedroom, beachside, your car…
- Feel yourself consciously ground. Feet or seat to the floor. Settle here.
- Either close your eyes or steady your gaze.
- Begin to carefully and mindfully follow your breath, start to manipulate your flow of breath in a way that will serve you. Deeper, slower inhales through your nose, longer, complete exhales through your mouth.
- If you have the space, open up your body. Reach your arms up high on the inhale and then slowly sweep them wide and by your side on the exhale.
- Repeat this movement a few times. Being super aware and connected to every sensation or thought that arises. Remind yourself that you are not either of these things. And carefully witness them leave the forefront of your mind with every exhale.
This type of movement is very simple and uncomplicated (as much as you give it permission to be). If you’re able to, take the movement to the next level and flow through a few sun salutes or simple breath with movement poses.
Before you know it, you’ll have connected to something bigger and the urge to inhale that chocolate bar will have passed. You’ll be left with a little more clarity and a lot more focus. Repeat as often as you need to.
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