Quick! Squeeze your shoulders back and hold while you count to five. Don’t forget to breathe while you’re doing it. Now, make tight fists and hold for the count of five. BREATHE! What other body parts and muscles need your attention right now? Can you give another five seconds to those parts?
Taking care of our body doesn’t have to stop us in our tracks. We can stop, notice and tend to our bodies at any time, in any place. When we do this, we start to make that mind-body connection that everyone is talking about, which can help us to “hear” what our body is trying to tell us.
We just gave our bodies about 15 seconds—can you spare 8.5 minutes today?
If you can, check out this Muscle Awareness meditation to notice the whole body and give it some much-needed attention.
Practice this in the morning, at lunch or before bed. Give some loving care and recognition to the parts of your body that serve you throughout the day. You can even practice muscle awareness while you’re standing in line at the supermarket, watching TV or sitting in your yard.
Moving the body does not have to be yet another task to add to your to-do list. There are so many ways we can move, nourish and strengthen our muscles and joints. You can start by standing or moving in your chair or bed as much as possible during the day.
A recent study published by the Mayo Clinic showed that standing for at least six hours throughout the day can significantly reduce the probability of obesity by 59% for men and 35% for women. If standing or walking is difficult or not possible, check out these excellent suggestions from the Center for Disease Control Disability and Health Promotion website.
Today can be the day that you increase your time in an upright position if you’re able. Can you add in some movement while watching your favorite show? Maybe stand on the bus or subway rather than sitting? Or invite a friend to a moving chat to catch up? You don’t even have to walk (or wheel) fast!
Learn more about the benefits of moving the body here.
