Harness Your 5 Senses for Peak Performance
As I have been sharing, I had A LOT of alone time on my 2-day solo hike. On one of the long stretches of no human contact, I decided to do a walking meditation and tune into each of my five senses.
I started by paying attention to all the beauty I was seeing like the majestic Smokey Mountains, the colorful wildflowers, and the up-and-down terrain. Then I drew my mind to what I was hearing like the birds chirping as they were flying here and there. The bees were busily buzzing and pollinating. It sounded like a symphony. It made me smile. My focus then went to what I could feel like the warm sunshine on my skin, the soft foliage rubbing against my legs, and the rocky ground beneath my feet. The smells were earthy and sweet, with the exception of myself on day two. Lastly, instead of mindlessly drinking water and eating, I brought my focus to what I was tasting like the minerally flavor of my water and the peanutty flavor of my energy bar.
By the time I finished this walking meditation, besides being filled with gratitude for nature and the beautiful creation all around us, I was energized and I became much more present to the moment. I felt so much more tuned in to what I was doing vs. going through the motions.
According to PositivePsychology.com, living in the present is not just an arbitrary term or a popular phrase—it’s a recognized and evidence-backed lifestyle that psychologists are quick to recommend to combat stress and to help people become more successful in life and in work.
There are a variety of strategies for getting in the present moment. Meditation is one of the best ways to do that. Any form of meditation reduces stress, improves mental health, and helps you function better at work and in life. Meditation can have an even more positive impact when you use your five senses. It’s a double whammy of goodness.
Here is a 6-minute walking meditation if you would like to give it a try.
This week’s Express Desk Stretch will stretch your body and bring attention to some of your senses. Check it out.
Inquiry Question: What is an everyday task you do where you can engage your five senses and become more present? When will you try it?
If you need additional help managing your stress, I am offering a one-hour online workshop on Friday, October 27th, at 10amET on how to manage stress in the moment. Stress is already an issue for many, and this time of year tends to ramp that up. If that is you, join me. I have been working with companies across North America on this 4-step process and now I am offering it to individuals. It is simple to do, and it works. Find out more here. I hope you will join me.
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Kindly,
Anita