Cooking
The actions of cooking – slicing, chopping, pouring and stirring – are all actions we can easily immerse ourselves in. As you cook, focus on the smell and taste of the ingredients, the temperature of the oven, measurements for spices, or the hot oil sizzling in the pan. If you find your mind wandering, simply bring it back to the food in front of you. After all, you can’t afford to let dinner burn.
Commuting
Whether you use public transit or drive yourself to work, feeling relaxed and present is totally possible, even during the frenzied morning rush. If you find yourself on public transit, try resisting the urge to put on your headphones. Instead, notice your body and its relation to those next to you. Feel the weight against your back if you are sitting or the bottoms of your feet if you are standing. Close your eyes and breathe, listening to the sounds and voices all around. If you’re in the car, pay attention to your body in the seat and your hands on the steering wheel. Listen to the purr of the engine and the click of a turn signal.
Washing Dishes
From the moment you turn on the sink, feel the suds of the soap and the temperature of the water. Hold the sponge or brush in your hand and pay attention to its weight in your hands; look at its texture, its color, and give it a squeeze! Scrub mindfully and slowly inspect each dish for a trace of leftover food or crumbs. Handle pieces with care and consideration. If your thoughts drift off, let them float away and bring your focus back to the dish in your hand: feel its weight and solidness. Scrub, rinse, repeat.
Brushing Your Teeth
Taste the toothpaste and hear the sound of bristles against your teeth. Count the number of strokes for each side of your mouth and be cognizant of your posture as you stand in front of the sink. Are you slouching? Are you leaning? What is your body doing? Being mindful of your tooth-care regime doesn’t just mean a more pleasurable experience, it may also amount to cleaner teeth!
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