We are a distracted society. We multi-task like a well-programmed machine. Each new day brings a refreshed agenda, the ability to check-off, and cross out our list as we continue adding more and more items. It’s becoming an obsession to be busy. How often are you actually aware of each action you are producing? Do you mindlessly go through your day then, think at night, “What the heck did I do today? Was that today or last week that happened?”
Our Yoga practice can start taking on this same feeling of going through the motions, checking it off our to-do list. We can use our yoga practice to become more in-tune with how our bodies are feeling which helps us become more aware of the moment. Try incorporating the tips below into your practice to help increase your presence.
Close Your Eyes throughout Practicing
We have about 6,000 thoughts a day.* That’s on top of millions of images we are inundated with through social media, advertising, and living our daily lives. It’s no wonder our brains can feel heavy and overloaded. When I teach a class, I try instructing throughout the class to close the eyes. Closing our eyes instantly shuts out our visual surroundings and tunes us into the body and moment. I personally go through most of my practice with closed eyes. I find my mind gets less distracted, less often. Start with closing your eyes and forward folding with your breath. Of course, safety is a top priority so open your eyes if you feel unbalanced.
Hold a Pose for Ten Breaths
For many, as soon as the alarm goes off, it’s go, go go. The mind starts thinking of what needs to be accomplished, the heart rate slowly starts increasing, the breath starts getting shallow. We start the day like a racehorse out of the gate. When practicing, try pausing in a pose and staying for at least 10 breaths. It’s interesting how the mind and body will want to resist and come out of it, but staying is what plants you in your present moment.
Try Repeating Affirmations
Affirmations are the act of confirming something is true. When our minds are racing all over the place, anxiety can start forming or increasing. If there is something you are working on, trying using affirmations while practicing. For example, if you are feeling bouts of insecurity, maybe your affirmation is I am confident. Each time the mind wanders, starts making comparisons or begins daydreaming, when you think about, repeat your affirmation. Try repeating it throughout the day each time it comes to mind.
There is no magic potion or magic words that will help keep your focus and awareness. The only magic is in the repetition. Continually trying and coming back again and again. Sticking with it. As you bring attention to your present moment over and over again, your mind and body will also help remind to be aware when you forget.
*29 Incredible Stats that Prove the Power of Visual Marketing, 2018, https://movableink.com/blog/29-incredible-stats-that-prove-the-power-of-visual-marketing