In todays hectic world, there are countless distractions. Even as I type this, my attention is divided between my computer screen and laughing at the opening sequence of "Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2". I have to say, Groots little temper tantrums are super funny.
But this is a self imposed distraction. After a long day of non stop work, learning and cello practice, I am burned out. I'm sure you can relate to days like that. You get home from work, school, the supermarket, decision making, etc...and all you want to do is just veg.
So what can be done to be more mindful or to stay mindful when you are exhausted, tired, or mentally ready to just stop mentally working?
TRICK 1) COUNT, THEN COUNT SOME MORE
When you walk into a room or feel yourself nodding off mentally stop what you are doing and count. What should you count?
Count the amount of people in the room.
Count the different sounds you can locate.
Count the tiles on the floor.
Why does this work to keep you mindful? Counting things forces you to break your current focus, and tune into something specific. This complete shift from auto pilot to mindful, is a great way to get yourself back into the moment.
TRICK 2) FOCUS ON YOUR TOES AND WORK YOUR WAY UP TO YOUR HEAD
This sounds like a strange tip to regain focus and attention but hear me out. When you focus on your toes, you have to bypass every part of your body to get to the furthest location away from your head. When you move your way back up to the head, you will likely note different feelings in your body. Don't linger on any body part but just take note of how you feel until you make it back up to the brain.
This short exploration should reground you mentally. This should help you to get back into the moment.
TRICK 3) EXERCISE
After a long day, nothing recharges the batteries like a little exercise. It seems counter intuitive that exercise can help us regain focus and attention but it works. Next time you finish a long day that leaves you feeling drained, try exercising and you will likely begin to feel a little more mindful and ready to refocus.
Exercise has a lot of health benefits, but just be sure you stay balanced with it.
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