There are so many things I want to do…Yoga, biking, running, swimming, being with my family, hiking, camping. Then there are things I have to do. Work, get the kids ready for school, make the breakfast, lunch, dinner (and yes Tim helps, A LOT), laundry, you get the picture. When I try to fit it all in and add a little extra ( passover dinner for 23, workshops, driving 3.5 hours to spend time with a friend, all in one weekend), I get a little stressed. Mind goes into overload. I use my breath but can’t get my mind to settle. Finally, the body gives out and wham, sick in bed for a whole day and feeling crappy for two more.
Now sitting here writing this blog post I realized with all the mental chatter, I didn’t even find the time to sit quietly and settle. I have been dabbling in mediation. A little here and a little there. I have signed up several times for Deepak Chopra’s 21 day mediation. So far I have completed 7 consecutive days, and should be on day 14 but only on day 10. During those first 7 days, I felt much more ease and peace. Now the mind is in overload and the body feels it. How can your body stay strong and fight when it’s over producing hormones to keep you calm.
Adrenaline increases your heart rate, elevates your blood pressure and boosts energy supplies. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, increases sugars (glucose) in the bloodstream, enhances your brain’s use of glucose and increases the availability of substances that repair tissues. Mayo Clinic
So, aside from breathing, we should all meditate. ” Real Happiness, The Power of Mediation” by Sharon Salzberg is a great resource.
When the stress is coming and life seems overloaded with activities, schedules, work, and children, take the time to sit and clear your mind. The thing about mediation is it’s free and you can do it pretty much anywhere. So if you see me sitting in my car with my eyes closed or in a small office at work just leave me be! I am clearing my mind and making space for the activities of daily living!
