Have you ever shoveled snow and woke up the next day feeling muscles that you forgot you had? That’s the kind of physical muscle awareness you’ll remember for days!
It’s funny how often we forget that we are living inside of this amazing tool we call “the body.” And yet, even when we don’t pay attention to our muscles, joints, organs, blood and flesh, they are still there — doing what they need to do to support life.
Sadly, we are sometimes critical of this miraculous machine we call the body. We complain that we are too thin, too thick, too weak, too tired, or don’t look good in our jeans. If you could wish your body well just for today, what would you say? Can you take a moment and thank your body for getting you out of bed and going about your daily tasks? When you go to bed at night, can you add a moment of gratitude for your hands, your feet, your heart, your lungs?
By practicing this 8.5-minute muscle awareness meditation, we are taking the time to notice the whole body and giving it some much needed attention. Practice this in the morning, at lunch or before bed, to offer some loving care and recognition to the parts of your body that serve you throughout the day. You can even practice muscle awareness while standing in line at the supermarket, watching TV or sitting in your yard!
Moving the body does not have to be another task to add to your to-do list. There are so many ways we move and nourish and strengthen our muscles and joints. You can start by standing, moving in your chair or bed as much as possible during the day. A recent study published by the Mayo Clinic showed that standing for at least six hours throughout the day can significantly reduce the probability of obesity (59% for men and 35% for women). If standing or walking is difficult or not possible, check out these excellent suggestions from the Center for Disease Control Disability and Health Promotion website.
Today can be the day that you increase your time in an upright position if you are able. Can you add in some movement while watching your favorite show? Maybe stand on the bus or subway rather than sitting. Or invite a friend to a moving chat to catch up – you don’t even have to walk (or wheel) fast!
Learn more about the benefits of moving the body here.
Topics in this story
More Stories
Rumi’s "The Guest House" invites us to welcome each emotion as a teacher, even the unexpected ones. Listen and reflect for this week's #LiveWholeHealth practice.
Your breath is the most loyal friend you've always had. Connect, calm and heal with mindful breathing in this week's #LiveWholeHealth practice.
Gratitude is a light that shines through life’s ups and downs. Embrace gratitude this holiday season in just five minutes for this week's #LiveWholeHealth practice.
After my knee injury in 1986 I spent about 18 months in Physical Therapy. The Ortho Doc’s informed me that the only real solution would be a knee replacement but at 30 I was too young. I had to learn to Live with It. LOL. Right Live with It. I got to know Physical Therapy like I was in training to become a Therapist. Thankfully my hospital co-workers really stepped up to the challenge. When at 60’ish the time came the Ortho Surgeon at Tampa VA said he understood how the Right Knee, the not injured knee needed replacement before the injured Left Knee, He just couldn’t figure out
How Did I make it this long with NO Discernable Muscle Atrophy in either Leg?
I replied BAMC Physical Therapy Staff & Pharmacy Staff 1986-1988. They Taught Me Extremely Well.
Thanks for the great suggestion