Check in? What the heck even IS that?

You’ve probably heard me—and lots of other like-mindfully-minded folks—invite you to “check in” during a practice. It’s one of those terms that quite possibly no one’s ever broken down for you, so you may be left wondering if you’re doing it right … or if you’re even doing it at all!

Like so many mindful activities, “checking in” can be a very personal practice. It can be something you do when you’re alone and quiet, and it might look just like meditation. You might have your eyes closed so you can really notice your breathing. Or maybe you have a hand resting on your heart—or in a hand posture—and to a casual observer it looks like you’re just waiting for something to happen. And actually, you are: you’re waiting for an internal report, to hear what you have to say.

Our daily lives usually involve so much rushing and simultaneous activity that we have no idea how we truly feel about what’s going on around and within us. Taking the time to slow things down—even for just a breath or two—can allow us to catch up with ourselves, and subsequently make better choices, put things into perspective and choose our next direction … instead of feeling like we’re being dragged along for the ride.

If moving is really your thing, check out the physical practices below. The first is a simple meridian tracing practice, which can be relaxing or invigorating (or both!) depending on your style. The second is a movement sequence inspired by a rainstorm that offers a variety of moves to match, shift or enhance your own inner weather. You can expect to feel a bit more focused, clear and refreshed by the time you finish these two practices—no matter what time of day you try them.

Be sure to hit the “Subcribe” button in YouTube so you don’t miss future free practices like this one!