Step away from your immediate work environment and find a quiet space where you can have a few moments of solitude.
This is often difficult as a hospital worker.
It could be a break room,
A peaceful corner,
Or even a restroom.
Once you've found your spot,
Find comfort either sitting or standing.
Our journey begins by taking a deep breath in through your nose to the count of five,
Allowing your belly to fully expand.
Then slowly exhale through your mouth,
Releasing any tension or stress.
Take a few more breaths at your own pace,
Letting each inhale fill you with peace,
Renewed energy,
And each exhale releases heaviness,
Overwhelming sensations,
Tension.
You may feel your eyes get heavy.
If called to do so,
You can soften your gaze or let your eyes gently close.
Just do what feels comfortable for you.
Do a slow,
Head-to-toe body scan,
Noticing any areas calling for your attention.
There is no need to linger in these areas.
Just notice,
Allowing your breath to fill these areas,
Releasing discomfort,
Tension,
Tightness.
If this is all the time you have,
Slowly bring your awareness back to where you are and gently open your eyes.
Continue with your day,
Knowing you can do the simple breath practice any time during your shift.
If you have the time,
Allow yourself to linger a bit longer,
Feeling the stable surface beneath your feet.
Does it give you the sense of stability,
Strength,
Focus?
Take a moment to express gratitude for yourself and the work you do,
The impact you have on others,
The strengths you bring to your role.
Allow a sense of appreciation and self-compassion to fill your heart.
Begin to bring your awareness back to your body and the space.
Take a few breaths,
Feeling refreshed and more centered.
Carry the sense of calm and focus as you return to your duties,
Knowing that the simple breathing practice can be done any time during your shift,
Even a few minutes of self-care can make a significant difference in managing the stressors of your work and nurturing your well-being throughout the day.
Until next time,
May you know peace,
May you know gratitude,
May you know self-care.
