I wanted to share one more mindfulness exercise with you so show you how simple this is to weave into your day. It’s a wonderful way to de-stress, reduce anxiety and enjoy the moment. This is mindfully washing the dishes. Many of you may think-ugh, I’m not going to wash dishes by hand, and I’m going to put them in the dishwasher. That is O.K. You may want to just try this and see how it feels. The beauty of mindfulness is that you can do it anywhere, anytime. You can do it while vacuuming, or waiting for your computer to start up, or waiting in line.

To mindfully wash the dishes, first notice what is in front of you. What color is the sink? Is it stainless steel or some other material? Notice the dishes you are about to wash. What is the color of the plate is there a pattern on it? See the colors and textures of the foods or sauces that need to be cleaned off. Look at the water coming out of the faucet-is it coming out gently or forcefully? What about the dishwasher detergent? Is there a color to it? Notice the bubbles begin to form as the water hits it.

Now pay attention to the sounds. What does the running water sound like? Can you hear the bubbles as they gently burst and change shapes? Notice the clatter of the plates and silverware as you put them in the sink. Are there other sounds? Can you hear the refrigerator running or the air conditioner as it clicks on? Perhaps you hear others in your home talking or you are listening to music.

What do you smell? Can you still smell the meal that was cooked, or the food on the plates? What about the dishwasher detergent? Does it have a smell to it? Perhaps it has a lemon or orange scent.

Next, feel the warmth of water and how calming and soothing it feels. Notice the slipperiness of the detergent. Are you using a sponge or a dishrag? Feel its texture. Is it rough or soft? How do the plates and silverware feel in your hands? Are they heavy, smooth or sharp and pointy?

If you wash the dishes or do any chore around the house in this manner, you will find that it is much more enjoyable to do, and you can unwind at the same time. Anything you do mindfully will keep you in the moment-a place where anxiety and stress don’t exist.

Take care,

Debbie