But I don’t have time. Micro relaxation.

A Moment of Relaxation

Continuing our topic of pleasure from last week today we explore relaxation. Relaxation can be one of the simplest pleasures but we make it out to be this huge unattainable thing. We are so damn busy. That is true but no matter how busy we are we can build in moments of relaxation into our schedules. But first we have to want it. Once we want it we can make time for it.

So let’s start by exploring what we are grateful for about relaxation. What are you grateful to experience through relaxation? Think about the last time you felt relaxed. What were you grateful to experience in your body, mind and spirit? What activities are you grateful to do (or not do) that creates a relaxing environment for you?

This was an exercise of connecting with what we appreciate about relaxation. Sit with this for a moment. Say to yourself, “Relaxation is important to me. I appreciate relaxing.” Notice any resistance that comes up but regardless of that resistance return your focus to what it feels like to relax.

If you are very busy you might not have time to do your favorite relaxation activities. But for now, prioritize micro moments of relaxation. Some examples:

• Escape to the bathroom with the door closed to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
• Sit down on a favorite chair and just feel the chair against your body. Notice your breathing. Attempt to slow your breathing.
• When you wake up before reaching for your phone take a moment to scan your body for any tension. Take deep breaths. Touch your skin in a soft and soothing way.
• Before going to bed, dim the lights and sip some tea. Be fully immersed in this moment. Try not to plan and reflect. Just be here right now.
• During work take a micro fresh air break. Walk outside and notice. Look for five different colors. Notice any smells. Notice the sun and/or wind on your skin.

Regardless of what you choose, when you are done write down one thing you are grateful for about your micro relaxation.

This final step is vital to keep the practice going. I have found that writing down genuine gratitude creates a shift in me that helps me prioritize whatever I am grateful for. This means that we will be more likely to do it again if we are grateful for our experience. And yes, writing it is important. You can write it in your phone or write it on some scrap paper. You don’t have to keep it and you don’t have to share it. The act of writing it is enough. (Of course if you’d like to write it on the ourgratitudecollective.com website or the facebook group you are welcome to.)

I hope you take the time for at least one micro moment of relaxation. And if it feels pleasurable to you, I hope you do one each day. Here’s to more pleasure and more relaxation in our busy lives. This is a gift you can give yourself. And what a beautiful gift it is.

 

It’s very important that we relearn the art of resting and relaxing. Not only does it help prevent the onset of many illnesses that develop through chronic tension and worrying; it allows us to clear our minds, focus, and find creative solutions to problems.
~Thich Nhat Hanh

What are you grateful to experience through relaxation?

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[su_note note_color=”#e7e7e7″ text_color=”#686767″ radius=”0″] My gratitude journey started in May 2011 and continues to this day. Thank you for being a part of it! A daily gratitude practice is simple. Write down three things you are grateful for each day. Download your free GratitudeGuide. My clients focus on gratitude and learn from their successes to make the positive changes they want in their lives. You can too. Call me to set up our first meeting 505.333.9336. [/su_note]