Three Breaths

Happy Solstice this weekend! Happy Christmas, Hanukkah, Season of Lights. And along with the happiness of the season comes a lot to do. So as you are getting into your car to accomplish many tasks, and go into a world where patience is worn thin by long lines in big stores after working a long day, I have a suggestion that can shift your mood.

As you sit in the car and put your seat belt on, take three breaths before you start the car. Three breaths that start in your belly, rise up to your chest, and slowly release. This takes about 30 seconds. It feels like a long time when you have a lot to do, but it's a small investment for a nice benefit. These three breaths are like a re-boot for your mind and body. A chance to shift your focus to something more pleasant, something of the moment - the way the sky looks, what it feels like to be alive at this very moment, this day of December in 2008. Here you are.

These three deep breaths give your body and brain an extra jolt of oxygen. If they could sell breathing they would, but it's free and it gives you energy and clarity! So simple, and you don't have to wait in line for it. Your body might even keep it up for a while, these deeper breaths, seeing how good it feels, how it feeds your cells, even as you drive. (When you're thinking a lot, or stressed out, it's easy to take shallow breaths, and the brain and body are working with less fuel.)

If you want to take this one step further, try driving silent - no radio or music. You may notice some beautiful things. Parents walking their kids home from school, a pretty tree with bare branches, some ways to participate in your environment rather than just sailing through in the car. You may find yourself receiving, which is wonderful when you are giving so much of yourself.

So: Thirty seconds and three breaths = feeling awake and clear for the next part of your day.

Enjoy these dark, long nights. May you sleep long and replenish!