I have heard a familiar phrase from many of my clients (and I have been guilty of this myself) over the years: “I don’t have time to do anything for myself.” Of course, at some point, we have all felt as if we don’t have time to … exercise, meditate, read a book, go for a walk, visit a friend.
And many days it’s true: we don’t have time to fit in a time-consuming, self-care practice. The run-up to Christmas only makes this worse as we have extra demands on our time and resources.
However, there is something we always seem to find the time to do every single day: wash our hands. What a perfect opportunity to take a mindful pause. Furthermore, the water itself is an ideal reminder of life-giving qualities.
Think of flowing rivers, waterfalls, rushing currents, ocean waves …
Time is like a river. You cannot touch the same water twice because the flow that has passed will never pass again. Enjoy every moment in life.
It’s also important to remember that humans are mostly water-based, so our entire being already resonates with water.
Human beings have long been in awe of water. Its movement, its forms, its colours, its power. All these catch our attention, fascinate us and sometimes spellbind us. We can stare at a running brook or lapping waves and enter a mood of calm wonder. They also explain why humanity has so often used water as a sacred symbol.
Water is a relatively simple element to work with. When you are stressed out, just rinse those energies off your hands.
By turning the water to warm, you add the Fire Element. Once released, cool the water for regenerative, invigorating vibrations.
Washing Hands Meditation
When we wash our hands in warm water, it opens the blood vessels and tricks your brain out of a stressful state.
Whenever you are at a sink to wash your hands, take an intentional pause.
Feel the temperature and pressure of the water as it cascades over your fingers.
Breathe deeply and remind yourself to “let go” and flow with life, rather than against it.
Think or say aloud the words “I accept life as it flows in, around and through me” or “I am open to the flow”. (Choose any words that resonate with you).
Don’t stop there. Continue to focus as you turn off the tap and dry your hands. Notice the muscles in your hands moving, the texture and any sounds of the towel.
Notice the temperature of your hands and how it changes as they go from wet to dry.
When your hands are dry, take a few seconds to take a deep, relaxing breath.
You can apply mindfulness to any activity, but here are some other water-related activities you might like to try with this technique:
Washing dishes
Showering
Bathing your kids
Sharon Cole
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