The holidays are behind us now and 2017 lies ahead—still as bright and fresh as an untracked field of snow. How are you planning to make your mark on the year? At Mexicali Blues, we’re spending January focusing on renewal, with a magical, mindful, month-long recalibration of our bodies, minds, homes and relationships. And we want you to come along!
All this month we’ll be sharing simple strategies for replenishing our bodies with healthful energy, reawakening our sense of wonder and gratitude, rejuvenating our personal spaces, reconnecting with the people we love and renewing feelings of optimism, determination and hope. No matter what 2017 may bring we want to be ready to meet it.
First on our list? Finding time for fifteen minutes of mindful breathing every day. Every cell in our body needs the oxygen each breath we take provides. The simple act of breathing renews us, average, about 23,000 times each day! Paying attention to something we might not normally notice renews our appreciation for our amazing bodies. It also renews our connection to the natural world and reminds us of the power of being in the present moment.
How do you do it? Mindful breathing is so simple:
1.Find a relaxed and comfortable position.
You can turn on music, follow a guided meditation or breathe in silence.
2.Take a deep breath, hold it in for a few seconds, and exhale. Feel your lungs expand and contract. Follow the progress of each breath through your body until the next one begins. Let your mind wander but gently bring it back to your breathing.
That’s it! If you are having a difficult time transitioning from holiday celebrations to workday or school day schedules today, a few moments of mindful breathing can renew your energy, focus your thoughts and fill you with purpose.
We’ll share more of our renewal strategies with you this month, and we’d love to hear about yours! All of us at Mexicali Blues want all of you to have a happy, healthy New Year.
The post HOW ARE YOU STARTING THE NEW YEAR? AT MEXICALI BLUES, THE NEW YEAR IS ALL ABOUT RENEWAL appeared first on Mexicali Blues Blog.
