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Mindfulness is an increasing part of employee wellness programs. Can this simple practice help bring calm to our hectic lives?
Next time you’re at work, find your- self a comfy chair, shut off your computer and your phone, and
close your eyes for a moment.
Now take a deep breath, letting every
muscle relax as the air slides softly back out. Inhale again, focusing entirely on the act of breathing, letting those nagging thoughts of deadlines and duties drift qui- etly away, like leaves floating on a stream.
As you follow the soothing rhythm of the
BY ERIC RUTH
breaths within you, begin to let your sens- es embrace everything around you—the chatter in the hall; the steady tick of the clock on the wall; the aroma of lunch drift- ing up the hall. Feel how the seat cushion presses against your body; how the sun- light touching your cheeks feels so warm.
You are now living in the present mo- ment—for once in your long, hectic, has- sle-filled working life.
In time—maybe even this first time—
you will begin to feel a sense of calm as you breathe. Within weeks, and all through the day, you find that your peace of mind no longer seems to be held captive to thoughts of tomorrow’s stresses, and yesterday’s regrets. You discover a new way of approaching problems, handling challenges—accepting them for what they are, resolving them with greater assurance, and enduring their presence with less pain.
Sara Teixido practices mindfulness and hosts weekly meditation nights.
Mind Over Matter
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ERIC RUTH