There are certain activities that result in making us feel more relaxed, centered, and grounded. For example, receiving a deep tissue massage, taking a nap, going for a run or a bike ride, getting a pedicure, or taking a restorative yoga class. But in today’s fast-paced world, it’s difficult for many of us to find time for self-care, despite it’s importance. Here is a centering technique developed by Wendy Palmer, Founder of Leadership Embodiment, that takes just a few seconds to work. In fact, why not try it now?
Pause.
1. Breath: Take a deep breath in through your nose, and take an even longer exhale out through your nose. Try it again, and this time imagine your exhale spiraling down through your body toward the ground. Take a few more deep breaths like this.
2. Energy Field: Imagine that you have an energy field surrounding you. What shape is it? What color is it? What if the back of your energy field was equal to the front? What if the left side of your energy field was equal to the right? What if the energy pulling you toward the sky was the same as the energy pulling you into the floor?
3. Shoulders/Jaw: What would it be like to feel the weight of your shoulders, right now? What would it be like to feel the weight of your jaw?
4. Quality: Now, pick a quality that you would like to manifest inside yourself right now. Take a moment and let that word come to you. If you’re stuck, here are some suggestions: acceptance, relaxation, peace, or ease. Ask yourself, what would it be like if I had a little bit more ______ in my being?
Notice if you feel a bit more grounded after completing this 4-part centering exercise. If the answer is yes, feel free to use it whenever you need a moment to replenish yourself. Try it before you step into your next meeting. Or before you walk through the door after a long day at work. Notice if this small exercise changes the way you interact with others.
