Time Out!

Let’s face it. Executives and organizational leaders are busy, busy people. Some days life can be a blur of meetings and commitments. Things can pile up quickly until we feel like our personal and work lives are out of control.

What can we do to get our lives under control again? To feel productive again? To feel less stressed and harried? Try taking a time out during your day.

Time outs (also called meditation) can last as little as five minutes or as long as 20 minutes. The focus of a time out is to relax and rejuvenate your overworked mind and body. I like to take my time outs for 15 minutes each morning and evening. The result that I’ve had with regular time outs is that my days flow smoother, I am more creative and productive.

So, now that we know why we should consider taking time for ourselves, and what the benefits would be, let’s talk about how to make them happen.

There are many different types of meditation postures a busy person can use. Depending on how you posture your body during your time out, you’ll be able to access different qualities of your subconscious mind. You will learn about three body postures here you can do in the office or at home.

Meditate
Sitting:
The purpose of a sitting meditation is to call upon one’s inner wisdom. This posture is best used when you are grappling with a tough problem that you need guidance for. During this time out, sit comfortably either on the floor with your legs crossed, or in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Allow you arms to rest with your hands palms up on your thighs. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Notice your breath coming in and going out. Ask for inner guidance and wisdom. If you have a thought, simply notice it and return to focusing on your breathing. Stay in this position for five minutes. Work your way up to 15 minutes.

Standing: If you’re getting ready for a tough meeting and need to access your inner authority, then a standing meditation could be very helpful. This posture can assist you in dealing with things from a place of self-respect and self-esteem, setting limits without guilt. During this time out, simply stand with your arms and legs uncrossed, your feet flat on the floor and your eyes wide open. Focus on your breathing. Notice your breath coming in and going out. Ask for your inner strength and personal power to show itself in your tasks today. If you have a thought, simply notice it. Continue to focus on your breath. Stay in this position for five minutes. Work your way up to 15 minutes.

Runner
Moving: Sometimes we need some help getting our "creative juices" flowing. A moving meditation can do just that. During a moving time out you could be walking, jogging, biking, dancing, or taking part in any other activity that you choose to help you listen to your inner voice. During this time out, keep your body open and uncrossed. Focus on your breathing. Notice your breath coming in and going out. Ask for the ability to be more creative. Continue to focus on your breath. You’ll notice some intuitive insights and creative solutions that begin to appear spontaneously. Stay in this moving meditation for five minutes. Work your way up to 15 minutes.

A happier, more productive life is waiting for you. All you have to do is take the time to ask!

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