Mindfulness is an important part of developing self-awareness, which in turn is a critical part of Connect to Self.
Here are five easy exercises you can do at (almost) any time to quickly ground yourself.
- Stop
Take a break to observe what you are thinking, feeling, doing. Then proceed. - Mindful eating, walking or washing up!
Any activity can be used. Suspend attention in other areas and focus purely on that activity. - Five senses
The goal is to notice something that you are currently experiencing through each of your senses. What is the one thing you can see, feel, hear, smell and taste? - Breathe
Breathing techniques, such as box breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, allow you to activate your parasympathetic nervous system (the calming response in your body), as opposed to your autonomic nervous system (the fight/flight response). - Make bodily changes
Slow your pace of speech, utilise more pauses, or slow the pace of your walk.
What other steps can you incorporate into your day to support on-going emotional self-awareness and regulation?
Reach out if you’re interested in exploring this more and let’s connect if we’re not already.
