Intersections of Life Coaching and Mindfulness
How often do we allow ourselves time to fully arrive into a space? As we rush from place to place or meeting to meeting, a gentle reminder that mindfulness practices can help us get settled and better prepare for what’s next.
As a life coach and teacher, I’ve found that incorporating simple mindfulness practices can help me be more present. And in sharing these methods with clients and students, I recognize we can all carve out a few moments to fully transition and get grounded. Take a few intentional moments to check in with yourself and prepare to make the most of your experiences, whether that’s a coaching session (both as a coach and as a client), teaching and learning, or a more present-focused life.
Here are 3 mindfulness practices you might consider incorporating into your day-to-day life:
- Box Breathing: Also known as square breathing or 4×4 breathing. Breathe in slowly through your nose to a count of four, hold your breath for a count of four, breathe out slowly through your mouth for a count of four, and then hold for a count of four. Repeat as desired. Variations include visualizing each count as a side of a box, rounding out the breaths by imagining an infinity (figure 8) symbol, or tracing one with your finger.
- Five Senses: Bring awareness to each of the five senses. Notice five things you can see. Notice four things you can touch. Notice three things you can hear. Notice two things you can smell. Notice one thing you can taste. Engaging with our senses helps us focus on the present moment.
- S.T.O.P. Mindfulness: S – stop, or pause. T – take a breath. O – observe the body, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and physical sensations (without judgment). P – proceed with more awareness and intention. This practice allows us to take a breath and check in to see how we’re doing.
The synergy between mindfulness practices and life coaching techniques can build holistic personal development and inner calm. Practicing mindfulness can help all of us live more intentional and aware lives by releasing the habit of tension and cultivating an awareness of being fully present. Here’s to Living Intentionally!
During the month of January, we are giving away a free copy of thrive31’s Living Intentionally Workbook. If you would like to book a workshop or personal coaching around the Living Intentionally process, contact hello@ithrive31.com.
