How to Integrate Mindfulness into a Hectic Schedule

You wake up early in the morning every day. You get ready for your work. You know you need to be in a creative and positive mood in order to get the most out of this day and be evolving in your expert field. “Carpe diem” is the motto that inspires and drives you most of the times. You love what you do, either as a business owner, a free-lancer or a business executive.

However, you may feel exhausted and drained out of energy by the end of the week and you can feel that there is something missing from this already busy and hectic schedule.

Does all this resonate with you in a way?

Mindfulness is here..

In order to give and share your energy, you have to fill and re-fill in your “deposits” with loads of it continuously.. or else, overwhelming and procrastination are waiting for you around the corner.

What you truly need is small amounts of mindfulness practices everyday. Think in a minimalistic way. It helps!

So, here are 5 ways in which you can smoothly integrate mindfulness into your schedule.

1. Set one-minute intentional pauses of mindful breathing. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing at the moment, just pause for only one minute and observe your breath. Nothing more!
2. Set boundaries and create micro-routines of brief meditations or sitting alone and listening to one of your favourite songs. It is of utmost importance to set these boundaries between your work and personal time.
3. Use reminders for short breaks of stretching or mindful breathing or, even, writing a positive affirmation on your journal (not necessarily a ‘traditional’ journal- the “Notes” app in your mobile is a great choice as well!).
4. Practice mindful listening. What a wonderful way to stay in the present while deepening the connection with the colleagues as you sincerely listen to them, and , furthermore, the stress is reduced in this way of communication. You don’t need to rush and think ahead!
5. End the day with a mini ritual, so as to transition out of the busy day you had and prepare the mind for rest and relaxation. Make a tea, listen to some good music, meditate for a few minutes, light a candle with essential oils.. there are plenty of choices to make you feel good as the day comes to an end.

Of course, these are just a few ways of integrating mindfulness into your hectic schedule, but as you practice them, surely you will come up with more ideas that fit to your temperament and mood each day.

Keep in mind that the more simple you keep your practice the more consistent you will be and the more positive results you will have!