Press Pause

Every now and then my weekend mornings allow me the luxury of time to pause. While we all run around in our busy lives there is much to be said for a bit of idle time. The author, Dr. Samuel Johnson once wrote, “Every man is, or hopes to be, an Idler.” Taking a timeout, idling as it were, is not a bad thing. It is our busyness that is the problem. So for today we are going to pause and if you aren’t sure how that is done, here are a few suggestions…

Bring back Sunday as a day of rest. For some that may be a religious practice and for others just heeding ancient wisdom. Take a day to devote to yourself and family.

Do away with the guilt. Our world is constantly demanding that we keep busy and we start to feel guilty if we aren’t “getting stuff done.” Guilt is an artificially imposed construct that is not universal. So let it go.

Sketch a tree. Or a flower. The act of drawing makes you stop and observe and as you become engrossed in this artistic endeavor anxieties tend to diminish. Even if you don’t think you are an artist give it a try.

Go wandering. Rambling is another good word for just taking a slow walk as if you were a child, stopping to look at bugs, rocks, and flowers. Be deliberately slow.

Lie on the ground. Listen to the birds, the wind in the trees, or gaze at the clouds. This can also be done on a clear night when the moon and stars can be mesmerizing.

Meditate. Or at least pretend to. Excuse yourself from all tasks and indulge in contemplation and reflection.

Take a nap. Research has shown that a daily snooze can reduce the risk of heart attacks. If curling up in your office isn’t an option, at least go somewhere quiet where you can close your eyes for at least 10 minutes.

I hope you found peace in the pause.

until next time…