( Cue the music) Summer, Summer, Summertime!
1It’ s time to sit back and unwind right? Well, yes, but that’ s not all we should do. Understandably, you may not want to hit the gym as much as you did in the Spring.
The mere mention of being indoors when the sun is shining and grills are blazing is probably laughable to some. So, let’ s meet each other halfway. What if there was a way you could incorporate simple movements to keep your body limber, and your spirit centered, all while still enjoying the fleeting moments of summer? Think it’ s impossible, think again, and I am going to show you how easy it can be!
In the mornings after prayer, set aside a few minutes for“ Moving Meditation”.
By Adrienne Dawkins-Smith
Moving Mediation is a way of bringing together movement and a focused mind. The movements themselves can vary from easy stretches to leisurely walks. Simply bending at your waist to your right or left while taking the opposite arm and reaching overhead can do wonders. Hold that position, listen to your body. How does it feel? What is it saying? Is the stretch comfortable, is it a challenge but achievable? How is your breathing currently, is it rapid or calm and steady? These are the moments when you can truly feel the inner workings of your body, your muscles, your joints, tense tissues, and give it what it needs.
Taking a leisurely stroll while enjoying the sunshine does more than enhance your body. This simple activity provides various benefits such as enhancing your body’ s ability to produce Vitamin D, boost immunity and improves mood, just to name a few. Incorporate longer strides that will allow you to safely stretch your hamstrings( think of a lunge but not as deep). Carefully repeat for 5 times per leg, each time gently going deeper than the time before. Even a fraction of an inch is an improvement.
Daily movements calm your mind, create awareness and help to bring you into the present. Use what I have shared as your building block and create even more ways to move, meditate, and give back to yourself.
Adrienne Dawkins-Smith Certified Wellness Coach Certified Breathwork Coach Certified Stretch & Flexibility Coach
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