Micro Rituals

how to make even the mundane things meaningful.

It is hard not to get swept up in the busyness, and sometimes chaos, of the workday. Endless to-do’s to make us lose sight of the really important moments.

Today I want to lean into micro-rituals and why they matter.

Zen Buddhist Monk, Shunryu Suzuki paints a vivid picture of the art of ritual: 

“When you do something, you should do it with your whole body and mind; you should be concentrated on what you do. You should do it completely, like a good bonfire. You should not be a smoky fire. You should burn yourself completely. If you do not burn yourself completely, a trace of yourself will be left in what you do.”

How to give yourself some extra time and space this week

Suzuki's message is to become fully aware and present with each moment and each activity. Can you think of an activity you do a little mind-less-ly?

Here are some examples of ways to create micro rituals during your workday:

• Mindful coffee: Instead of rushing through your morning coffee routine, take a few moments to focus on each step, from grinding the beans to pouring the hot water. Notice the aroma, the sound of the water, and the sensation of holding the mug in your hands.

• Magic thank you practice: Before you start your workday, take a moment to reflect on three things that you're grateful for. Write them down on the top of your notebook and say to yourself — thank you for each one. This will help shift your mindset to a more positive and optimistic outlook.

• Phone-free breaks: Set a reminder to give your eyes and mind a break from the screen every hour or so. Go outside, without your phone, and just breathe.

Recent research has shown that incorporating rituals into your workday can have a major impact on your well-being, productivity, and that of your whole team. By taking a few moments to center yourself throughout the day, you can reduce stress, increase focus, and approach your work with greater clarity and creativity. 

Mindful Musing  

As you start to incorporate micro rituals into your workday, take some time to reflect on how they make you feel. Notice any changes in your mood, energy level, or productivity. And remember, the most important thing is to approach each ritual with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. With practice, even the most mundane tasks can become meaningful. 

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead.

Le grá / with love,

Georgie