This year my Countdown to Christmas is a nontraditional Advent Calendar centering (pun intended) on mindfulness.
On the front of each card is neat little picture, and on the back are the instructions for the short meditation.
Today, the 13th Day of Advent … ENJOY A HOT DRINK.
Here are today’s instructions:
Time to treat yourself to a relaxing drinks break. Decide on which warm, soothing drink you would prefer — tea, coffee, hot chocolate; perhaps a seasonal mulled wine or hot toddy — and pour your full attention into the experience.
Pay attention to the sounds and sensations involved in making the hot drink. Hear the gurgle of the boiling water, see the steam rising, smell the drink’s aroma, feel the movement of the spoon as you stir. Notice every little action.
Wrap both your hands around the mug (check it is not too hot first). Notice and focus on the warmth resonating through your hands and body.
Drink peacefully and exclusively: alone, with your phone off. Try to resist any outside distraction — keep your attention on the drink.
Take each sip slowly — taste it, focus on your enjoyment of the taste, feel the liquid as it swills in your mouth and as it passes down inside your body.
Take your time. Don’t rush it down, take as long as you need to enjoy your drink. Notice how it makes you feel. Are you relaxed? Warmed up? Energised?
Drinking mindfully helps you practice how to direct your attention consciously and is a very effective form of relaxation.
Robert and I “meditated” with Caramel Brûlée Latte this morning here in Atlanta.
And a few of our other hot drinks over the years …
May you sip in peace today.
NealEnJoy 