Our body communicates to us all the time, but more often than not we only to tend to ‘notice’ it when it calls to us in some way, when it demands our attention. This week’s practice asks us to attend a little more closely and deliberately to its signals, becoming proactive with our body, rather than reactive to it.
Instructions
Several times a day, become aware of your posture. This has two aspects. First it means to become aware of what posture you are in and how it feels within the body. If you closed your eyes, what would be the clues that you are standing, sitting, or lying down? For example if you are sitting in a chair with your eyes closed, what tells you that you are in a body that is sitting? Where do you feel pressure or movement?
Being aware of posture also means to notice and adjust your posture many times a day. If you are slouching, gently straighten up.
A very good time to work with mindfulness of posture is at meals. Sit on the front edge of your chair with your feet planted on the floor, knees a bit apart. Straighten the spine to maximise room for breathing.
Other interesting times to become aware of posture include while standing in line, driving, lying down in bed, in meetings or classes, and while walking.
Reminders
Ask for help from your family and friends. Tell them you want reminders if your posture is slumped. Also look at your posture in mirrors and reflective windows. As you go by stand so that you can see your posture from the side. Does it need adjusting? Place a little coloured tape or a small note that says “Posture” on the chair or table that you use for meals.
Please Share the Intention
Image courtesy of bartmaguire