This mindfulness snack comes right out of the inspiring book by Amy Cuddy called, Presence: Bringing your BOLDEST Self to your BIGGEST CHALLENGES in which she shares the neuroscience behind the way our own body language sends messages and endorphins to our brain and impact our sense of calm, power, and well-being. I highly recommend this book!
Here are some of the postures that talks about in her book, along with a couple of my own favorites thrown in for fun.
Strike a Wonder Woman pose with your hands on your hips, feet slightly more apart than should width, and head tilted up just smidge. Your brain will register that you’re powerful and a Superhero.
Smile at yourself in the mirror or when you’re by yourself or when you’re out in public. A smile on your face tells your brain that you’re happier than you may feel. It may also alert someone in public that you’re a tad insane.
Hug yourself and feel the warm, loving embrace of your own arms. If you ever need to feel loved, turn to yourself first.
Walking in the Tall Grass. This is a Qui Gong movement that I love because it encompasses both grounding and fluid motion. Stand on one foot, then bend and raise your other leg up so your knee is above your hip and raise the opposite arm at the same time. Then switch legs. This is a fluid motion and will tell your brain that you can hold still and keep moving at the same time. You’re both grounded and flowing, stable and powerful. This body language sends a message to your psyche that you can remain balanced as you move forward in your life.
