In honor of the Buddhist Monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, who passed last week, I want to share with you one of his mindful meditations. Start by taking a deep breath in and out a few times. Then, say these affirmations as you breathe:
Breathing in I calm my body.
Breathing out I smile
According to Psychology Today, “When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, you can change your whole mental state by changing how you breathe. Taking long, calm, deep breaths can lower your heart rate, relax all the muscles in your body, and totally refocus your mind. And, funnily enough, the more relaxed you are, the easier it is to welcome happiness in the natural way.”
I’ve said it before and I have it on a shirt, “Just Breathe,” especially when facing life challenges.
Finally, I want to share with you something I found on a sign at the Indiana University Health Center. It reads:
Please take responsibility for the energy you bring into this space.
Your words matter. Your behaviors matter. Our patients and our staff matter.
Take a slow deep breath and make sure your energy is in check before entering.
Thank you.
Indiana University Health Center
I think this health center really has it right. Watching the energy we put out in the world is so important. I had a boss who used to refer to peoples behavior as “their way of being in the world.” I always liked that and tried to be sure my way of being in the world held positive energy…although I’m not perfect for sure.
May your week be full of positive energy and mindful breathing.