Long Way Round

I am intentionally taking the long way round. 

Life can feel like a whirlwind, with ‘hacks’ posted online, designed to get ‘one-up’ on life, almost without it knowing. This piece is not one of those. No secret recipe to success, or time management tips or how to be incredibly productive by 6am.

I recently posted on social media, about my newly created role of Chief Relaxation Officer, CRO). It is too early for a probation review, but a reflection on how this is going feels appropriate.

I like the idea of exercise, but my favourite classes at the gym are the yoga classes where you spend a lot of time lying down, still and just breathing. We are encouraged to focus on the in and the out breadth and to stay present whilst we lie in the semi-darkness. Thoughts are gently observed and allowed to pass as we are led and guided through meditations and poses to keep us grounded. 

I often take these classes in the afternoon, because I am not a morning person. The to-do list is not done, deadlines are looming and I have an array of other ways to procrastinate. I have clients in the evening, admin and general ‘adulting’ tasks we have to attend to. However, I regularly choose to lay down and be unproductive, to rest and all I have to think about is breathing. It is a little oasis in my day.

On my way back from the gym I intentionally take the long way round. 

To be present and enjoy the unfolding of spring over being efficient and getting back to work.

I walk slowly, or sit down for a moment, taking in the trees, the returning bird song and looking up at the the sky with whatever colour it has chosen for that moment.

I cannot claim to have reached inner peace or reached my toes for that matter. Yet, I have paused and given myself permission to simply be. And I feel so much better for it. 

To conclude, I am growing into this CRO role and perhaps some seeds of relaxation are beginning to take root.

I invite you to consider where you could find those moments, to pause, perhaps look up and to take a breath.