Most of us lead very hectic lives. With work and families and other commitments there can be little time left for anything else. Even when we are at home we are usually rushing round doing jobs.
When we are constantly on the go our relationships can suffer. If we don’t stop to give ourselves a break it is unlikely that we pay those who are important to us enough attention either.
Sometimes Martyn and I are so busy that I suddenly realise that we haven’t had a kiss for what seems like ages!
Staying close to those who we care about is really essential to our happiness. It is very easy to co exist without really connecting.
A little while ago I read about an exercise to improve relationships which involved looking into the eyes of the other person for 4 minutes once a day.
It struck me how mindful this idea was, just to stop and to totally be with someone you care about. By keeping eye contact you really are keeping them and only them in your focus.
So I have been doing the eye contact exercise with Martyn. Whenever we remember we have just been doing 10 seconds, Martyn was not game for 4 minutes!
Even the 10 seconds is enough to change things. As we look at each other we smile and even if we have been niggly with each other the mood improves and a bit of humour re enters our relationship. We both feel better for it.
When you maintain eye contact it is much more difficult for you mind to wander. The focus of the other person seems to draw you in and keep you there in the moment.
If you want to be more mindful in your relationship this could be a really easy first step. Give it a go.
If you feel that your life could benefit from more mindful moments book onto a Revitalise session to get connected with your here and now. You will be doing amazing things for yourself and for those who you care about too.
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