A Moment of Restoration

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​We’ve just entered March, and I fully feel the pull of busyness and distraction that will send us hurtling even further into 2018 before we know it. Perhaps your schedule, too, is filling up with various events and gatherings and obligations. I have to regularly remind myself to pause and to allow each day to be its own, rather than a fraction of a countdown.  It takes effort, and hopefully you are creating space for stillness as well. To that end, I offer the following to feel rested, restored, and resourced for these days and every day.
 
Find a quiet space.
This can be anywhere. You’ll want to have a wall (or headboard) clear and make sure you can keep the lights dim.  Naturally, this means lights out for cell phones too.
 
Prepare
Make sure you have a support  (such as a yoga mat, or use your bed) to lie back upon and blankets, socks, sweatshirt if you tend to get cold. Take your time to make it comfortable. (Hint: pretend you are setting it up for someone you love!)
 
Come into position.
You can stay resting with knees bent, feet flat, or try “legs up the wall” pose.  For that option, take one hip to the wall and then swing your legs up the wall. Don’t over think it – find the position that feels the most appropriate and then lie back on your back. Notice if you find you need to make any adjustments from there (maybe shifting hips forward or back) and give yourself that time to shift. Your hands can rest on your abdomen or by your sides, whichever is most comfortable. It may feel nice to have a cushion or pillow rest on your low abdomen, with your hands on top.  Legs can stay straight or take the soles of the feet together, knees wide: Your choice!
 
Stay
Scan your body and notice any tension. Imagine smoothing it out with the breath. Set a timer if you need to – it may help to support allowing yourself the opportunity to rest!  Give this practice a go. What benefits do you reap? 

​-Maureen Kelleher, ATR, LPC