It's All Connected
From the way we move to the thoughts we think, to the emotions we feel and the food we eat. They all have an impact on the body. It really is ALL connected.
Every day we move our bodies in ways that don't take much thought at all. This can result in postural patterns which lead to physical pain in the body. From these long held patterns we may end up feeling restricted in our natural movements and as though we have less vital energy. From that place we tend to make choices that are not the best for us - we reach for quick fix options. These less than ideal choices can lead to a bad mood, fatigue and irritability. But really, this isn't who we are. This is a result of a tired body-mind system that is out of balance; a body-mind system that is calling out for a little more TLC.
We all have the same number of hours in the day. How come some people can find the time to walk the dog, go to the gym, meditate, cook a delicious wholesome meal, bathe the kids and make the next day's school lunches? While others struggle to get through the bare essentials?
Honestly, some days I feel like I have no time. Then I catch myself, sit back and reflect on what I have or haven't eaten, what I have or haven't been drinking and what is going on in my head. Nine times out of ten, I have skipped a meal, drank far too much coffee and not enough water, been on my laptop for hours and not stepped outside for a breath of fresh air. All the while, ruminating on needing more hours in the day. When in reality, all I need is a break. Even just a moment to take a few deep breaths of fresh air and start again.
How do we expect to have a thriving life filled with contentment if we are not giving ourselves any time to rest and recharge?
Everything we do and say to ourselves determines the state of our wellbeing. Everything is connected. Our mind, our body, our spirit, our breath and our movement.
One of my favourite quotes says, "You cannot drink from an empty cup, nor can you give from it. Fill your cup so full it overflows and from there you can share"
Do not think it is selfish to give yourself time every day that is just for you. Each and every one of us is completely unique in the way we function. One thing we all have in common and can do to slow down is to use the breath as a tool. Take just two minutes to stop. Breathe. Focus 100% of the mind on the body. From here you can calm the nervous system, slow the brain activity and move with more awareness.
Try this:
1. Find a comfortable seat, or lie on your back, knees bent, feet about hip width apart. Rest your hands on your belly.
2. Close your eyes, notice how you are breathing. Is it short and shallow? Is your exhale longer than your inhale? Just notice.
3. Then, start to inhale for a count of 4. Hold for a count of 1. Exhale for a count of 4. Hold for a count of 1. This is one round. Continue this breath for one minute.
4. After that, scan your body from the top of your head to the tip of your toes. Notice any sensations, areas of tightness or lightness. Without judgement, just notice and stay present with what you feel for a few moments.
Another tool we all have available to us is water. Yep, simple as H2O. Most of our body is made up of water so it's essential to our wellbeing to keep hydrated. Freshly filtered and at room temperature is the most preferable for our bodies. If you struggle to get enough water down in a day, you could add a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint. On these frosty mornings, try starting your day with a glass of warm water with a slice of fresh ginger, warming the body from the inside out.
For more weekly tips from us to you, keep an eye on our Instagram feed. And, as always, we hope to see you on the mat! Check our updated class schedule and book yourself in for some TLC.
