Mindfulness

I've been enjoying a much slower pace of life here in India.  

By contrast, I am reminded how much I normally rush through

my life back in Seattle.

I'm sure you all can relate.

Packed days where your brain is constantly

running through all the things that

still need to be done and checking off "to do" lists

while constantly keeping 

one eye on the time.

Sigh.

Something surprising that has been helping me 

be present in the moment is the simple custom of

removing your shoes before going into any indoor room - 

the dining area, your room, shared bathrooms 

and of course, yoga studios.

It's easier to remember to do when you have to step over

a cluster of others' flip flops to go into a shared space,

but I found it harder to remember when it was

just me going into my room.

My mind was always ahead of me.

What's next?

Slowly I'm getting better.

And it's become a sweet little practice 

in mindfulness. 

And

slowing

down.