Slowing down
The light in my bathroom went out while I was showering today. And my brain immediately went to “Oh wow I’ve been in the shower too long, what a waste of time. Its good that the lights went out, I can get out sooner.”
But then I stayed a bit longer. My mind was racing to get out. I could be doing something more productive with my time.
But then I stayed a bit longer. And all of a sudden, my mind felt present(?). I let the scalding hot water fall on my back. On my neck. My shoulders relaxed a few inches. I took in deep breaths and could smell the black tea scented body wash. I could hear cars honking away, could see the street lights leaking in through the window.
I finally got out of the shower after 17 minutes, possibly the longest I’ve been in years. I didn’t stay in for so long to practice mindfulness or learn to focus better, I just happened to be there until the activity ended.
I think our lives are so fast paced lately, that doing anything that doesn’t bring tangible value feels wasteful. It feels like time is running out and we have to get to a destination that’s always two steps ahead of us.
After what I experienced today, I’m convinced that with all the intention we’re putting behind running faster and faster towards our goals, we should also learn to intentionally slow down.