Breaking Old Patterns

Instructions for "Breaking Old Patterns":

1. Sit up straight in your chair and place your feet flat on the floor if you can. Close your eyes, or lower your gaze.
2. Tune in to your breath as it flows in and out of your body, follow each inhale and exhale as fully as you can. There's no need to change your breath.
3. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to the breath — don't give yourself a hard time, instead, congratulate yourself for noticing your mind had wandered.
4. When emotions arise, just notice them without getting involved in them, and return to the breath.
5. After a minute, open your eyes and come back to the room.

For the past minute, you have practiced being in control of your 'monkey mind'. You have promoted relaxation, and improved your focus. 
Aim to do this several times a day for the next week. (It may help to set a reminder on your phone.) Each time you practice, know that you are doing a little more to break the habits of your automatic thinking, and take control of your life.

If you have any questions about Breaking Old Patterns, email me!

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Neuroscience research shows that "neurons that fire together, wire together" (Hebb, 2009). Like a path worn in grass, neuronal pathways strengthen with repetitive use. Mindfulness practice is your opportunity to establish healthy pathways in your brain, so it no longer chooses default responses such as  anger, anxiety, stress, or fear. 
Strengthen your mindfulness muscle - because prevention is better than cure...

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