Instead of setting goals at the start of each year, I choose one word as theme for the year. I then reflect at regular intervals throughout the year to ensure my actions and intentions are aligned with this theme. This year, my main focus word is “EASE”.
In moments of difficulty or overwhelm, consider the situation with a different mindset. How it would feel if this situation were easy? Or, manageable? Enjoyable? What small action can be taken, or thought flipped upside down, to help to gain perspective on this situation? A momentary reset gains clarity. Merely 30 seconds to close the eyes and listen to the breath. Or, a short meditation with a simple breath focus.
In recent conversations, a common topic came up about ongoing niggles in the body. An achy back, a catch in the shoulder, a restricted neck. We get ‘fixed’ by professionals but often revert back to our old habitual tendencies. Then the cycle repeats. Besides obvious injuries, it’s hard for one to pinpoint exactly what pattern of movements or postures create instability, asymmetry and aggravation in the body.
Consider this one small thing. How do you put your seatbelt on in the car? Do you wrench your dominant arm back and yank the seatbelt forward? Would it feel more easeful to reach across your body with your opposite arm? We undertake many unconscious actions in the day. What would be the ripple effect of moving with ease?
