Where Are You Rushing To?

I know, I know. “You are enough” sounds like something on a throw pillow. But hang with me. Today I’m talking about a guy who tried to pass me on the left in a parking lot (where was he going?), why rushing around makes us careless and a little self-important, and how being in a big hurry worry quietly steals the very moments we’re living in. You’re already there. There’s nowhere else to get to. Then we’ll do 16 Seconds to Bliss together, a simple counting breath you can use anywhere, anytime, even in the car. Key Takeaways

• Rushing ruins the moment you’re in and blocks any chance at mindfulness.
• Saving a second or two in traffic is almost never worth the stress on your mind and body.
• If you say you’re going to take a breath, take it right then. Same goes for prayers.
• Your brain can only hyper-focus for about 90 minutes before it needs a break. Give it one.
• 99.9% of moments aren’t bad. It’s what we lug into them that makes them feel that way.
• People remember the vibe you bring, not your napkins or your Pinterest-perfect cake.
• You’re already enough. Whatever you’re doing is probably plenty, maybe even too much.

Episode Highlights

• The parking lot pass on the way to lunch with friends
• My old road rage days and the little meditating Shrinky Dink I kept by my odometer
• A friend of a friend who got a speeding ticket on the way to teach his meditation class
• My husband’s refusal to rush (and why he might have a point)
• The family Halloween costume tradition that is not negotiable
• Stopping a stressed-out principal in the hallway for 16 seconds of breathing
• “Am I still breathing?” and what happens when you ask kindergartners vs. adults
• A guided 16 Seconds to Bliss counting meditation

Mentions and References

• Davidji and his 16 Seconds to Bliss practice
• Eckhart Tolle, the “Am I still breathing?” question
• Souper Jenny, Atlanta
• Julie Taylor, the best principal in the history of all principals

Try This Week

• The waiting room challenge: next time you’re at the doctor’s office, leave your phone in your pocket. Look around, let your mind wander, breathe. Let me know how it goes. I think you’ll be surprised.
• 16 Seconds to Bliss: empty your lungs with two exhales. Breathe in your nose for 4, hold for 4, out your mouth for 4, hold out for 4. Then let your breath come back to its natural rhythm.
• Catch yourself rushing: when you feel antsy behind someone turning into a parking spot, that’s your cue. Take the breath.

Connect With Me

• Instagram: @thestresstherapist
• Twitter: @stresstherapy
• ilovetherapy.com for meditation and yoga retreats and other offerings
• Live in Georgia and ready to work with me? Visit my website to sign up for a free face-to-face consultation.
• Jump on my mailer so you don’t stress or miss one thing.

Edited and produced by Owen Flake

Where Are You Rushing To?

Show Podcast Information