I spent the better part of last week being irritated. At the snow. I've always lived where there is snow and I always forget how much slower things go when there's snow. And ice. ❄️
It's these times when I rely on my daily mindfulness practice.
Snow falls into the category of things we generally can't control, and when we resist, we just make it worse. It's really easy to stress ourselves out when we don't give ourselves the extra time needed to get from point A to point B. It's easy to get stuck in a loop of negative thinking, worrying about how the snow might impede our plans, well before we even know if that will be the case.
What to do when there's stuff outside our control?
You let yourself feel the way you're feeling. Give yourself some space to be upset or worried. Those feelings are valid. I find myself judging myself for being “judgy” about the situation, which only makes it worse! Start by bringing some awareness and just letting yourself be however it is that you are.
I'm feeling anxious. It's okay. I'm feeling stressed. It's okay. ♥️
Next, see if you can explore your breath. Notice how you're breathing. Are you taking short, shallow breaths? Is air coming all the way down into your belly? Are you breathing through your nose or your mouth? Notice your body. Are you scrunching your shoulders? Where are you holding tension? Use your breath to soften those parts of you that need softening.
A daily mindfulness practice helps us to become aware of when we're spiraling and gives us the tools to bring ourselves back to the present moment with gentle compassion. A daily practice “trains us" to be okay with what is so we can make mindful choices going forward.
Besides my breath, I like using nature as an anchor point. While trudging through the snow on my way to an appointment, I had to stop and notice the beauty of campus. The sun was illuminating a foot of snow precariously perched on a branch. The bright chunks of ice and carpet of sparkles took me by awe.
I'm also rather enjoying the squirrels outside my window who are now burrowed in snow (searching for nuts I presume), their little heads popping up by surprise as they keep a lookout while going about their business.
Give yourself space to breathe. Give yourself permission to feel what you're feeling. Give yourself the gift of a daily mindfulness practice. Notice the beauty that surrounds you, even when you're busy doing all the things or grumbling about the snow. ☃️
Click
here to join
Our Daily Breathe. We're here to help you prioritize your well-being and support you in your practice. ✨
