July 2023 Summer Fun & Flow: Running

Happy July 2, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: Running

Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. I have heard if we focus on the past we will be depressed, if we focus on the future we will be anxious, and the key to joy is living in the present moment. A couple of the Yamas and Niyamas reflect this secret of happiness hidden in the “now”.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities (including some Zen Arts!) to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.

Zen Tea Ceremony

Running

Yesterday we went into a deep dive of the Zen Tea Ceremony, but today is a more simple activity. It was while running that I first experienced flow, during a team run in high school. I personally believe running is an activity that makes it relatively easy to find flow, so this is our second flow activity for our special Santosha and Mindfulness focused Anti-Boredom Month. Running is also great cardio! Tea and other beverage recommendations from yesterday had enough varieties to suit nearly everyone, but some of our practices this month will not be a good fit for you.. that’s okay! If running is not for you, try a mindful walk, hike, or exercise equipment. Or, go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!

Today’s Positive Practice suggestion

Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Running! Make sure to practice mindfulness and try to enjoy each day’s practice with all five senses. If you are new to running, check out these tips for new runners and, most importantly – wear comfortable and supportive running shoes and socks!

Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.

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More Positive Practices

Missed yesterday’s post? Read it here!

Related Positive Practices

Share your Practice

Please comment and share your experience with today’s practice. Were you able to find flow or contentment in the now? Always remember, be kind!