Sense awareness meditation – relax while taking a Shower

Taking a shower is a function we do frequently without thinking, which makes it an excellent task on which to focus awareness. Using your senses in the shower helps you let go of the concerns of the day and will put you in the present moment. Focusing on a simple everyday task and watching where your mind wanders allows you to see and understand what your mind is up to. You can decide if the wandering mind is helpful, or if it is time to return to your simple task.

When you turn on the water, feel the water touching your skin. See the water landing on your arms and on the sides and floor of the shower. Watch how it runs in a downward direction. Take in the smell of the soap and the shampoo. Notice the difference in the two smells and how each one feels. Look at the texture of the soap and see how different it is from the texture of the shampoo. Feel the softness of the soap on your skin and the shampoo in your hair. Hear the water hitting your body and the shower walls. Notice how different surfaces cause a different sound.

Let go of the story mind and use your senses to be aware of taking a shower and being in the present moment. If thoughts pull you away, be aware of them, and bring your attention back to the shower. Your shower does not have to take longer than normal; just notice it more fully.

Give your focus to the task and pay attention to when and where your mind wanders off. Learning to watch your mind and seeing for yourself where your mental activity is taking you is as helpful as keeping your focus on the task. It helps you see what your mind is up to, and shows you options and choices to pick a happier path. Once you are able to see and understand the choices and options available, you can transfer this to other parts of your life.