For many of us, hand-washing is a mindless activity we engage in several times a day. It’s also a perfect opportunity to create a mindful moment — a time to “reboot” your brain when it becomes scattered, rushed or twitchy. Here’s how to do it:
- If there’s a mirror above the sink, briefly reconnect with yourself. A smile, even a forced one, will help bring you in to the moment.
- While you notice the feeling of the water and soap on your hands, breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your lungs.
- At the top of each breath, pause briefly before exhaling fully through parted lips.
- Continue this breathing pattern as you dry your hands and give yourself one last look.
- Finally, thank yourself for persevering during these trying times.
Building this routine may take a while, but, as one manager said, “It helps keep me calm.”
