But then we have a better night of sleep, or a good nap, and think more clearly. We start mindfully breathing again and the world slows down and becomes calm and peaceful.
Mindfulness has become part of our life. It doesn’t take extra time or effort; it is just built into our daily routine. And on the days it slips us by, we just go forward and pick up where we left off.
Consistency over the long term is what provides the results. I still hold my angel in my arms while I do my breathing exercises. I breathe out and either blow gently on the top of her head or make an audible sound. Every once in a while, she joins in, and I hear her breathing out with me.
We give each other kisses and practise humming. I press my lips against her cheek and hum. Then she reciprocates and presses her lips against my cheek and hums. She laughs and giggles and thinks it is just a fun game we play together.
Mindfulness has become part of our life. It doesn’t take extra time or effort; it is just built into our daily routine. And on the days it slips us by, we just go forward and pick up where we left off.
My daughter now taps me on the back when I am sad, upset, or under stress. There is nothing more rewarding than feeling her little arms around me and the little tap of her hand on my back.
These are the things that make me realise she has been watching, listening, and learning all along. It fills me with joy knowing that I have made a difference in her life. While we have a long journey ahead of us, at least we have a mindful foundation upon which to grow.
So, whether your little one has just been born, or is in their toddler years, it is never too early or too late to start your mindfulness practice. It can help both of you manage your emotions, feel calmer and more peaceful, and build your connection in a new and different way.
April Kinney is a mother and owner of Kinney & Kinney, a coaching and mentoring company based in Perth, Australia. At age 49, she successfully navigated a corporate career for over twenty years and is now a Certified Master Practitioner in Neuro- Linguistic Programming, Timeline ® Therapy, and Hypnotherapy. April’s mission is to help women navigate their life challenges with clarity and confidence to create a life of purpose and meaning. You can follow along with her journey at www.aprilkinney.com and https://www.facebook.com/AprilLKinney.
