03/22/2020
As we all navigate uncertain times, and forced to stay inside, it is a perfect time to harness the opportunity to choose to go inside...to slow down, be mindful, listen to our own being. As I search for ways to be mindful, I found a great place to practice. You see...I love to take baths...and I climbed in before it was even close to being full. I felt a tightness in my chest as I caught myself worrying about my children, finances, people I love that I know are struggling. I was being hijacked by anxiety.
I have a regular meditation practice so I caught myself in this negative cycle and started to focus on my breathing...but being in the tub I switched my focus and wanted to share this great idea!
Get in the tub when it is still filling. Close your eyes and listen to the sound of the water filling the tub. Notice the difference between the sound of the water coming out of the faucet and the sound of the water hitting the water in the tub. Try to discern is you can hear the little splashes of water versus the bigger splash. See if you can feel how far the water is filling and covering your body without looking. How is the temperature? Where is your body solid on the tub floor and where parts are more floating? Focus on a floating part (a hand, the small of your back, your shoulder blades) and really pay attention to the sensations there.
Now you may need to mindfully turn the water off!!
Lean back again and notice the movement of the water from your change in position. Notice the water become slower and still. Is it really still or is in gently flowing with your breath? Check the temperature...without judgement. Focus on your bodily sensations of being in the tub. Maybe lay all the way back and put your head under. Notice the change in sounds. Notice the sound of your breathing.
Enjoy the rhythm of your breath and the gentle rhythm of the water following your breath. When your thoughts wander, bring them back to the sensations of being in the tub.
If you use soap, slow down and notice the feel of it on your hands, the smell of it, the texture. If you shave, do it mindfully and slowly. There are so many ways to practice in the tub!!🛁
I hope you will try it! I am definitely going to keep this in my practice!