Sometimes when we hear the word routine, it can throw us off of ours. No one is looking to add more to their plate, however, we must look and see how we are serving ourselves. The idea behind The Substitute is that it is a friendly reminder to use throughout the day when you notice your body feeling stressed or even depressed.
The awareness that you have when your body starts to have a negative feeling, is your trigger to use The Substitute. So think about incorporating this into your daily self care practice, without all the pressure.
Take three long inhales and exhales as soon as you wake up, before leaving bed, even better. Then, before you get in the shower, take another few breaths, that way you can feel the water and enjoy yourself, instead of stressing out about your daily to do list.
Next, use it before or after a meal. Conscious breathing aids in digestion, allowing muscles to relax, and increasing metabolism. If you drive, take three more breaths before you get out (or while you're stuck in traffic). If you take a walk, take The Substitute with you and breathe your way with every step. Notice how much calmer you feel.
And then make sure you do it right before you go to sleep too (you can always use it more than three times, but that is a good start). Let breathing start and end your day, and both your day and your night will be better, guaranteed.
When you add this simple exercise into your daily habits like eating, sleeping, and working, it becomes an easier practice with immediate benefits. And because you don't have to go anywhere or technically do anything, it will become like second nature.
Each breath is a chance to rewire your inner technology for optimal health in an unhealthy world. By taking five mindful moments throughout the day on a regular basis, you can make more moments in your life with centeredness and intention as opposed to reactionary ones that might be adding to the chaos.
Let The Substitute be your daily companion on life's journey.
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