Busy Person's Meditation

We all know that meditation is good for the soul...wouldn't it be great to have even 30 minutes a day to relax and meditate? 30 minutes? Sure, in all your free time.

There is, however, a way to get some meditative time in when your day is too full (like always) and you don't have the time to take a real break for yourself. I know some days it's hard to find time to go to the bathroom!!

So this is what I call the busy person's meditation. Give it a try.

• Choose one task that you do on a regular basis…..fold clothes, sweep floors, wash dishes, dust, cook-whatever you can think of.
• Do it as mindfully as you can.
  

Years ago, my personal coach suggested this to me and the task I chose was sweeping the floors. I have all hardwood or tile floors, 1 spouse, 2 kids, 2 cats and a dog in my house. I’m sweeping at least once a day. And like you, while it’s a goal of mine, I don’t have time to sit down for 15 minutes each day to meditate or relax.

So here’s how it works for me: As I’m sweeping, I really pay attention to my body. I consciously breathe more deeply and slow down; I listen to the sounds of the bristles against the floor; I notice the way the broom handle rests in the palms of my hands; I feel the subtle change in the muscles in my back and arms; I notice and appreciate the results of my efforts. I look around and notice things I love all around me-I really make an effort to be mindful of the moment. Believe it or not, I actually enjoy sweeping my floors! And for those who know my feelings about housework, that’s HUGE!

The other part of this exercise that’s so great is that it’s possible to have mindful and relaxed periods of time in the midst of all the normal craziness in my house. The kids might be watching TV, playing music or even arguing about something, but I’m not all bent out of shape. I’m more patient and I’m not worrying about the next thing on my “to do” list. (Now if I could just stop sweeping!)

Give it a try and let me know how it goes!