Where is your attention each day?

Where is your attention? 

This is actually an interesting question. 

·      Our focus can be outside of us (exteroception) 

·      We can be noticing where we fit within our environment (proprioception) and 

·      The other place we can have our attention is within ourselves ( interoception.) 

Another way of understanding these 3 ways to focus our attention is by asking 

1/ What is going on around me? 

2/ Where is my body within this space ? (This is handy if we don’t want to bump into others in a crowd or we are trying a new yoga posture or a stretch.) 

3/ What is my gut instinct in this situation? What is going on within my own body and mind. Is there a steadiness within me? What does my body, mind and spirit need right now?

 

In our busy world it is easy to have our focus outside of ourselves most of the time. We can become concerned with what others people think and what others need, putting our own dreams and needs to the side. It sometimes feels easier to be flexible and not voice what we really want. Listening to our internal longings can become less important than the noisy demands and long ‘to do’lists that come with family life. 

 

When we decide to find space in our lives for stillness, time in nature, self-care and doing what we have always wanted to do, something can shift, deep in our cells. Responding to the internal wisdom our bodies and minds are capable of, begins with going inside and taking a look around. You might hear, ‘Have a stretch, drink some water, call a friend, take a walk, make time for that creative hobby you love, have a massage or a bath, listen to music or read that book you have been meaning to read.’Listen and respond, just a little each day. 

 

A balance between each of the three ways to notice is key to reducing anxiety, improving digestion, boosting energy levels and lifting mood. 

 

Care not only for what is going on around you, but what is going on within you. Give to yourself what is essential and also what feels luxurious. You are worth it!