Today it is raining and cool outside. As it showered outside, I decided to take a warm shower and to do it mindfully rather than just a perfunctory step in my daily routine. As I stood there listening to the water, feeling the flow of the water on my skin, and the temperature of the water, it occurred, to me, that many of us often seek out a shower to soothe away what ails us on a given day. A warm shower might be your preference to reduce stress, ease muscle aches, headaches, or even relief from sinus-related issues. Maybe you prefer a cool shower to be awakened, jog the senses, and invigorate the body and mind to help you take that next step in your day. Whatever the reason, or the temperature, what a wonderful gift, to just step into a shower your own personal sanctuary.

Next time you jump in the shower do it with purpose and intention, bring mindfulness to the experience. Notice the sounds, sights, smells, touch, and even the taste of the water and the temperature as you begin to enter the space and feel the water cascade on your body. Is it warm, cold, tingly, smooth, is there a scent of chlorine or freshness, are there other aromas from soaps, shampoos or other bathing items? Begin to notice the changes in your attitude and mental state of mind as the water warms or cools your body. Simply take notice, no judgement, there is no right or wrong. As you are finishing up, do you feel more relaxed and at ease or more invigorated and alive. Taking time to give yourself this gift, allows you to bring whatever the physical and mental benefits of the shower provide you as you step out of your shower into the next steps of your day/evening. ENJOY!