Tired, frustrated, burned out, and falling apart. That's how most of us are feeling these days, and for good reason. These past months have been non-stop. Everything pulling us in every direction at the same time and nothing is giving.
I keep thinking of all these great solutions and fancy vacations that I am sure would help, but the reality is that not many of us are so lucky. The story I keep hearing is "I know I need to make a change. This is not sustainable. But I don't have the time or the bandwidth to make this change. I can't even think about it right now."
If these words resonated with you, then you might be interested in the "me-minute" technique.
What makes this minute special is that it is your minute. This is a technique to consciously dedicate a minute of your time to yourself. A small gift.
One great feature about this technique is that it is totally multitasking friendly. You can do it while waiting for a zoom call to start, folding laundry, driving, cooking, or any other minute that you can take safely during the day. Another great feature is that you can do it as many times as you want. More features: it is free, discrete, 100% customizable, and surprisingly rewarding.
Here is how to get your own me-minute started:
Since it is your minute, it starts only when you decide.
Once you claim your minute, close your eyes for 1 long breath; inhale for the count of four and exhale for the count of four.
If breathing with your eyes closed feels good and you would like to continue doing just that for the entire minute, then, by all means, go for it.
If not, then when you are ready to open your eyes, you can pamper any of your senses for the remainder of your minute. Here is a sample menu for you:
Think of a happy time
* A time when you were surrounded by laughter or doing something that you love.
* Dream of a perfect vacation and plan it all out to your liking.
* Think of all the things you would like to do once this pandemic is over.
Let this feeling fill your heart completely.
Smell something that you enjoy
* A cup of coffee
* Essential oil of your choice
* A flower
* Perfume
* Stick your nose out the window and smell some fresh air
Indulge in this scent and notice how it spreads its joy through you.
Look at something beautiful
* A souvenir, picture, or artifact that you love
* The view out of your window
* A piece of art
Feel your eyes and senses fill up with this beautiful view.
Eat that one perfect bite or take a sip of your favorite drink
Savor its flavors for as long as you can.
Every cell in your body is thanking you right now.
Touch a material that gives you comfort
Will it be warm or cold? Maybe something fluffy or soft?
* Freshly risen dough
* bubble wrap
* Kinesthetic sand
* Yarn
* Dip your fingers in a bowl full of dry beans.
Let these textures wrap you in happiness.
Listen - or even better, dance - to one of your favorite songs
Or plug your ears and melt into complete silence for one minute.
The power of a me-minute
Me-minute is accessible, flexible, always ready to help, and totally yours.
You can use it whenever, wherever, and however many times you want. All you have to do is decide to claim it and close your eyes.
It is only a minute, but it is your minute. A small gift that is here to heal you.
