Happy Monday, friends!
Let’s pause for a moment.
Breathe in…
Breathe out…
Yep, that feels better.
Today a new week starts, and I know that some would argue that Sunday is the first day of the week, and ya’ll are also cool in my book, but Monday as a kickstarter of the week is simply my preference.
Every Monday I give myself about an hour in the morning, after journaling and meditation, to organize myself a little and notice what it is that feels off balance so that I can intentionally move forward.
Today, and perhaps this entire week, my focus is on the pause between projects… On actually acknowledging the hard work that I do, and pause for a minute, or five, or for twenty.
I don't know about you, but I tend to jump from one task to the next, often without even taking a breath.
I finish writing a chapter of my book, close the writing app, and jump into sequencing and planning Thursday’s yoga class.
“Good job at finishing the project Laia! Alright, what’s next?” I tend to tell myself.
Although some may see that as productive, it gets me off balance, it doesn’t feel quite right, and eventually, at the end of the day, I resent myself for neglecting play and rest again…
I’m sure I am not alone on this, I want to let go of hussle culture.
When I take a moment and pause, I make better decisions. That’s a mantra right there…
Today I am taking a conscious break between writing an article and starting the next, or between folding laundry and my afternoon meetings. I know that when I do this with awareness, I can move forward in my day better, and feel more harmony by the time I go to sleep.
It doesn't need to be more than 10-15 minutes, perhaps even less.
Here are a few ideas for taking a pause today (or several), if you feel so inspired.
✨Yoga asana
✨Meditation
✨Going for a stroll
✨Connecting with a friend
✨Reading the chapter of a book, this is what I’m currently reading.
✨Listening to a podcast or audiobook
✨Make a nourishing snack or meal, try Jazz Leaf’s recipes.
And of course, if you're feeling so overwhelmed that you don't think you have time for any of that, well my friend... Then just take a deep f*king breath.
You are seen, you are loved, and you are not alone. You’ve got this.
How do you like to take a pause? How do you implement small daily habits to find balance?
I’d love to get inspiration from the community.
Drop a comment below!
Pausing to take a Breath
On this Monday I am grateful to have a high schooler and for MLK Day. I tend to start my days based on an alarm to make sure the kiddo makes the bus at 6 am. From there I feel no excuse to not get going. Today he is off, we all are off and serving one another with home cooked meals and being present.
I do have a load in the wash, have submitted some past due requests, and planned a few things.
Please share details about Thursdays class, how can I participate?