Katharina Buczek
You may notice that your shoulders are tight and your neck is strained while you stare at your work computer screen. Or maybe your tone is a bit more cutting with a coffee shop barista than you had anticipated.
But, if you practice mindfulness and approach your day with more gentleness, you will find that you are able to communicate better, engage in more collaboration, and feel more creative.
Sure, all of that sounds a lot easier said than done. But think about it: how does remaining tense help you or anyone around you?
Yes, it might take effort to be more self-aware and augment your typical behavior. However, it will definitely be worth it.
And one simple way to start making this change is by participating in a relaxation exercise every morning. Each day, before you get out of bed, tighten your shoulders, fists, and any other muscles in your body as hard as you can. While holding this tension, inhale through your nose for six seconds.
Then, slowly release all of your muscles and allow yourself to do a deep exhale. At that moment, imagine that all of the pent-up stress, frustration, and anger is leaving your body and, in its wake, is a much more calm, recalibrated, and peaceful center.
Finally, as you go about your day following this exercise, be sure to pay close attention to your behavior. How do you respond to a driver who cuts you off? What about a coworker who asks a question or your child who starts to whine?
Remember to speak from your heart and remain connected to your intuition. If you catch yourself coming off too brash or harsh, make an effort to soften your demeanor and tone.
Don’t Forget About Spontaneity
It is correct to assume that you have a lot going on in your day– whether that be work-related, family-oriented, or associated with other responsibilities.
Perhaps you own a small business and have to manage employees, write out purchase orders, liaise with clients, and conceptualize new marketing ideas. Or, maybe you are a mother who has carpools, laundry, dinner, and countless other household tasks to worry about.
