As the summer days begin to fade and the back-to-school season approaches, many of us find ourselves transitioning from the laid-back days of vacationing to the push and pull of everyday life. The return to routine can bring a mix of emotions - excitement for new beginnings, but also a sense of overwhelm as we juggle work, family, and personal commitments.

In the midst of this whirlwind, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose sight of ourselves. Our bodies may tense up, our minds may race with to-do lists, and our breath may become shallow and constricted. But amidst it all, there is a simple yet powerful tool that can help us find balance and presence: our breath.

I recently experienced a moment of clarity while sitting at my desk, feeling the tension in my body and the short, choppy nature of my breath. Instead of getting swept away by the frenzy in my head, I chose to pause and bring my attention to my abdomen. As I focused on the gentle rise and fall of my belly with each breath, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. My body relaxed, my mind quieted, and I was able to come back to the present moment.

This simple act of noticing my breath and bringing awareness to my body reminded me of the importance of staying grounded when the mind wants to take over. It's easy to get caught up in the rush of life, especially during this busy time of year, but taking a moment to breathe and connect with ourselves can make all the difference.

As we navigate the return to routine and the inevitable busyness that comes with it, remember to pause, breathe, and notice the movement of the breath through our bodies. This simple practice can serve as a powerful anchor, guiding us back to the present moment and helping us to become aware of the next best step to take.

Be well,
Maxine

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Photo by Augustine Wong on Unsplash