Showering

Taking a shower is something we all do on automatic pilot, right? After all, I am half asleep as I turn on the water and wait for it to reach the right temperature. All the while, my whole being longs to go back to bed.

I have found over time, even my best attempts to be mindful while showering are often unsuccessful. I step into the shower and when I come to, I think about my to-do-list, the weather, what I am going to wear, or find myself replaying past conversations and situations.

Lately though I have found that posting a small reminder to be mindful on the shower door has been helpful. While taking a mindful shower, I listen to the water cascading against the tile walls and floor, smell the fragrance of my lavender soap, and enjoy lathering up and toweling off. I’m grateful that at the turn of a knob, fresh, warm water flows forth.

It takes practice to be mindful of things that are repetitive like showering, making my bed, feeding my cat or cleaning out the dishwasher. But it’s worth it. These are small moments that if I am unconscious of them, I miss my one, precious life.

Mindful Tip:

Pick one activity you do every day and put a sticky note nearby to remind you, just in those few minutes to be present by engaging your senses. For a more advanced practice, change activities once a week!!!