Here are seven things I do each morning that help me stay centered throughout the day. They may also help you, starting with two activities related to the body:
1. Stretch yourself out.
I’ve reached the point in my life where I wake up stiff and sore each morning. So as soon as I get up, I hit the floor and s-t-r-e-t-c-h my arms, my back, my legs. After all, it’s hard to keep the mind clear when the body aches.
2. Get moving.
Some mornings, I to go on a brain-cleansing 2-mile run. You may prefer to walk, bike or swim. For me, exercising the body has a way of calming the mind and has the added benefit of helping you feel good about yourself.
3. Read spiritual literature.
While I’m driving to work, I strive to listen to uplifting podcasts, or to something that will inspire or motivate me. On days I don’t go to work, I read a portion of scriptures, philosophy blogs, and other religious texts.
4. Say a prayer of gratitude.
I give thanks for everyone and everything I am grateful for each and every day. When we give thanks daily, even more to be thankful for seems to come our way.
5. Meditate.
For 10-15 minutes daily, especially important on the days I don’t run. As I’ve said before, meditation is not as difficult as you might think. Because I know that some of you will say meditation doesn’t work for you, I’m adding point six just for you.
6. Focus on the breath and just be still.
You say you’ve tried to meditate and you can’t keep your monkey mind still? Then I suggest engaging in rhythmic breathing. This can be done throughout the work day, even if it means a quick retreat to a bathroom stall at the office. Stop what you’re doing and spend a few moments focusing on your breath, taking deep breaths in-pause-out, in-pause-out.
7. Try Centering Prayer.
Centering prayer is essentially a prayer without words, or more accurately a prayer with a single word. With an assist from David Frenette and his book The Path of Centering Prayer, here’s a simple six-point guide.
- Choose a one- or two-syllable word such as God, peace, love, stillness or faith. (I sometimes use a sentence, like this: “God you are so good to me,” repeated over and over.)
- Sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Silently introduce the word as the symbol of your consent to allow God’s presence.
- Repeat the word over and over, moving deeper and deeper within yourself.
- If the mind wanders, gently return to the word.
- Rest and simply be with God “as if you put your head back down on the pillow after waking.” Sense the presence of God within you.
- As your prayer ends, let go of the sacred word and rest your mind for a minute or two before going about your business.
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