Meditation When You're Too Busy to Sit

Each day I make time to connect with the divine in me during meditation. It calms me, so I can remember my purpose and my intention to live from my higher self. But, there are times when I find it difficult to sit still and watch my breath, or I just can't find the time in a busy day. Sometimes I am plagued by the "monkey mind" when a never-ending stream of mundane thoughts float in and out of my brain. When this happens, I don't need to sit cross-legged on a cushion to reap the benefits of meditation. I can turn to movement as my meditation. 

Any movement can become a meditation, such as taking a short walk in the garden or around the block, stretching on the yoga mat, or doing household chores. As I water the plants in the garden, I remind myself to notice the sensation of the air on my face, the smell of the plants around me, the sound of the birds and other outdoor creatures, the texture of the leaves and flower petals, and the warmth of the sun-drenched tomato. When I walk, I pay attention to the sensations in my body like the pressure on the ball of my foot as it touches the ground. My favorite movement meditation is when I'm stretching during yoga exercises. It is the perfect opportunity to go inward and connect with my body and mind. 

Any household chore can become a meditation. While I'm doing dishes, I notice the slipperiness of the soap as my hands slide across the dish. I notice the heaviness of a platter or the delicate pattern of a teacup. Making the bed can be done in the same way. When I go about my tasks in a mindful, fully present manner, the chores almost become a delight.  Any chore can be turned into an opportunity to breathe deeply, be present, and connect with the body and the world around me.

By using movement and daily tasks as avenues into the meditative state, I can connect with my higher self numerous times during the day. My mindful self is only a breath away.