Last week, you were nudged to get on the ground with your toddler. This week, you’re encouraged to lie down on the floor…all by yourself.
That’s right, mama.
Seek out a mini, solo savasana for just a few minutes.
And whatever you do, don’t wait for the perfect scenario.
- Plop down in the closet if you have to.
- Sprawl out in the hallway during naptime.
- Sneak in a lie-down while your kiddo self-plays.
- Take five on the kitchen floor while hubs does bedtime.
Worried about dirt? Slide something under your head. Is your mind racing with to-dos? Give ‘em the finger while you ac.tu.al.ly let yourself linger. (I’m sorry if you get that Cranberries song stuck in your head, now.)
Shift your focus inward and do nothing else but b-r-e-a-t-h-e.
Then, watch this small break work some serious wonders.
According to psychotherapist and yoga teacher Ling Beisecker, when you’re lying on the ground, your mind tends to focus on the inner workings of your body. Automatic, unconscious processes like breathing and heartbeat start to become conscious. This process, called interoception, is not only calming, but it can also decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. But wait. There’s more!
“Savasana is known as a great way to reduce stress and fatigue, lower blood pressure, relieve headache pain, and improve sleep.”
…Beisecker wrote in an article for DoYouYoga.com.
Getting horizontal on a hard, flat surface (Couches and beds don’t count!) is also amazing for your muscles and bones. Your spine can realign to its natural posture while your back and neck muscles get a rest from holding you up.
And before you know it, you’ve refilled your cup.
So, the next time you need some emergency reprieve, don’t delay, m’dear.
Stop…
Drop…
B-r-e-a-t-h-e.
This post is part of the Mama Be Present series:
A joy-sparking journey + free community for moms who desire simple yet impactful ways to connect more with their little ones.
FEELING INSPIRED?
Want to keep up with these weekly joy prompts while clinking coffee with moms from all over? Join our private Facebook group or follow along on Instagram.
Meet new friends. Revel in the small things. Share your memories in the making.
Brit Stueven 