Have a mindful Leighton Buzzard morning
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, aware of our thoughts and feelings without distraction or judgment.
Setting a morning aside that incorporates mindfulness can be a great way to create some much needed headspace and wellbeing from our busy lives. Here is our plan for having a mindful Leighton Buzzard morning.
Plan ahead to make this possible for yourself. Let go of perfectionism and allow yourself to do as much or as little as you can manage. If you have children the wake up routine may not be possible but you can plan another part of your day. Perhaps visit the The Refill, the market or Piccolo Bakery and pick up something delicious and wholesome ready for a mindful breakfast. Look up some stretches or yoga like this 5 minute full body stretch or increase your learning such as Rocci Tree or Sarah Stratton-Hine. Agree that during this time you will not use social media or other distractions.
Waking Up
Wake up gently, could you switch the alarm off? Invest in a sunrise alarm clock or set soothing music to wake up to? Take a moment to concentrate on your breath, stretch gently, listen to the noises around you, how many can you identify?
Morning Movement
Refresh you body with a glass of water. Take some time to do some gentle stretches or yoga.
Self Care
Enjoy a shower, noticing every step you take. Notice your thoughts and bring yourself gently back to the moment if your mind begins to rush ahead. Take the time to look after yourself, apply body lotion, wear your favourite scent and appreciate all that your own body does for you. Dress comfortably in clothes that bring you joy.
Mindful Breakfast
Prepare your breakfast, listen to the sounds, scents and colours as you complete the task. Give yourself a few moments to notice how your body feels before eating your breakfast, are you hungry, thirsty, what do you feel. Eat slowly, put your cutlery down before the next mouthful. Avoid the usual distractions and bring your mind gently back to the present when you notice your thoughts straying.
Take a Mindfulness Walk
- All Saints Church Garden: This peaceful spot offers a tranquil environment for a short meditation session. Even 5-10 minutes of mindful breathing here can significantly reduce stress levels.
- Grand Union Canal Towpath: A few minutes by the canal can provide a serene backdrop for mindfulness practices. The gentle sound of water and nature can be particularly calming.
- Leighton Buzzard Market: On market days, practice mindful observation by focusing on the colours, smells, and sounds of the bustling market. This sensory exercise can be grounding and refreshing.
- Rushmere Country Park: Prompt: “Engage in forest bathing by using all your senses to experience nature.” Tip: End your walk with a gratitude practice, listing three things you’re thankful for.
- Parsons Close Recreation Ground: Prompt: “Take a moment to appreciate the colours and scents of the flower gardens.” Tip: Practice deep breathing to centre yourself for the walk ahead.
Mindful breathing
One of the simplest yet most effective mindfulness techniques is controlled breathing. Try it as part of today’s routine
- 4-7-8 Breathing Technique:
- Inhale quietly through the nose for 4 seconds
- Hold the breath for 7 seconds
- Exhale completely through the mouth for 8 seconds
- Repeat this cycle 4 times
Mindful Planning
Finish your mindful morning by thinking about how you feel by taking time out today.
- Plan an act of kindness, it can be as simple as sending a card, volunteering or calling a friend.
- Think about mindful steps you can include every day
- Take time to prepare for the next day, choosing clothes, preparing food to make every morning a little smoother.
- Be flexible and adapt your plans – avoid perfectionist thinking, there is no perfect way.
- Use Bee Local Magazine to explore events and groups that can add to your happiness and wellbeing
- Check your use of technology and how it affects your thoughts. Instead of social media explore apps such as Headspace to feel better.
- Listen to Nostalgia for Beginners Tuesdays 9pm on Leighton Buzz Radio for a soothing end to your day.
There are many ways to incorporate mindfulness into your day. By trying our mindful morning plan you can see what works for you.
