How many times do we drive from point A to point B, arrive to point B and think “How the hell did I get here”? This has happened to me time and time again. Where this random amount of time lapses and suddenly I awake in a sense of wonder. The commute to and from work can become quite routine. You get up, you get ready, you leave the house at a certain time, you arrive to work at a certain time. Then you work, and you leave at the same time every day, take the same path home, get home at the same time.
It’s all routine.
What happens when we change up our route?
What happens when we go a way we don’t normally go in order to experience different scenery?
At the previous office I worked, whenever it was time to come home in the fall, I purposely drove an extra 15 minutes so I could come down a road where the trees were the prettiest. Sure, it took me longer to get home. But for those extra minutes, I was always mesmerized by the oranges and reds dancing in the sunset.
Today, I challenge you to be mindful the entire ride to and from work (or to wherever you need to go). Let go of trying to get anywhere fast; take your time, and notice your surroundings. That’s right, mindfully notice your surroundings. Everything from the colors of the cars around you, the faces of the people, your thoughts to your emotional reactions. Simply cultivate your ability to observe.
Just for today, I challenge you to leave your anger at the curb and let go of your road rage. Don’t look at your phone… Just drive.
Maybe you commute via public transportation. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Today during your commute notice the muscles in your legs tense and release to help you maintain your balance on the train or the bus. Doing this helps to anchor your thinking, which can help with anxiety or stressful matters throughout the day.
Bonus: Body Scan Meditation for train/bus commuters
Original mediation from an article by Psychology Today.
Begin by checking in with your environment and the people around you to make sure it is safe to practice this. Turn off your iPod, I might suggest keeping the headphones on to decrease the chances of someone disturbing you. Gather your belongings close you to ensuring that they will be secure during your meditation.
Now, stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Try positioning your feet at a 45-degree angle to the center of the train if at all possible. This will help to maintain balance as the train stops and starts. If possible (or necessary – and hey, if you don’t need to hold onto something while riding the train I’m super jealous of you lol), hold on to a bar or railing.
Roll your shoulders back and raise your chin up so that you feel your spine elongated. Adopt a posture that embodies confidence and dignity.
Lower your gaze to be looking out the window or an area ahead of you. You can also look at your hand or arm if you’re holding onto the train.
Mentally rest your attention on the physical feelings in your body as the train moves. Pay particular attention to the sensations you feel in your feet and your legs. Notice your muscles tensing and releasing as they help you maintain your balance as the train moves. Become aware of the shift in your body as the train lurches forward or begins to brake. Maintain awareness on the physical sensations for the duration of your trip.
Oh, by the way… don’t forget to exit at your stop!
Once you get off the train, take a moment to reflect on the journey. Take note of what you noticed and proceed the remainder of your day with mindful awareness.