Morning Pause

Yesterday I talked about finding a moment to Pause to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. Starting something that you can easily incorporate into every day.

I like to start with stretching, first thing in the morning, just after I open my eyes whilst still lying in bed, but you can do it anywhere that works for you. Morning works well as it gives you the chance to check in with yourself – both mind and body. 

Start at your toes, giving them and wiggle, scrunching them up. Working along your body to your feet, pointing and flexing. Rotate your ankles, tense your calves, press the backs of your knees into the bed or floor. As you work your way up your body just notice how each area feels, without judgement. Sometimes, if I remember, I will thank different parts of my body that has served me well – my feet for carrying me on a long walk, my back for its strength and reliability in keeping me tall and upright. Choose what feels right for you. As you reach the fingers and hands really scrunch them up and splay them out, close and open your fingers whilst splayed – it’s amazing how hard they work for us each day.  Thank your neck for carrying your head all day long – it must be heavy, it holds your brilliant brain! You can thank each of your organs in turn for doing such a wonderful job, unseen and often un thought of.

Take this time to also check in how you feel mentally – without judgement – try to simply listen to how you’re feeling, after sleep has allowed you to re calibrate. Finally rest both hands on your heart, listen to the world around you, take a moment of inner peace, as the world outside continues to turn. This doesn’t have to take long; it’s a light, thankful way to start the day, allowing you to connect with yourself and the world around you.