Why Worry Goes with Hurry!

The Power of Mindful Breathing in Breaking the Cycle of Worry and Hurry

In our fast-paced and demanding world, it is all too easy to get caught up in the relentless rush from one task to another. The constant pressure to meet deadlines, fulfill obligations, and keep up with the demands of modern life often leaves little room for calm and thoughtful decision-making. As a result, worry becomes an ever-present companion for those trapped in the cycle of hurry. 

Eknath  Easwaran, a spiritual teacher and author, astutely recognised the inseparable connection between worry and hurry. He observed that individuals in a hurry rarely have the time or mental space to think clearly and make well-informed choices. The fear of making mistakes or falling short of expectations begins to overshadow their every action. This perpetual worry arises from the uncertainty and doubt that come with hasty decisions made without careful consideration. 

 One powerful way to break free from the grip of worry and hurry is through the practice of mindful breathing. By intentionally slowing down and focusing on our breath, we can create a space for clarity and calmness to emerge. Mindful breathing allows us to bring our attention to the present moment, grounding ourselves amidst the chaos and demands of daily life. When we are in a rush, our attention becomes fixated on the desired outcome, and we lose touch with the present moment. The more we hurry, the more we disconnect from our inner wisdom and intuition. This lack of mindful awareness hampers our ability to make informed decisions and amplifies our worries about the consequences of our actions. However, when we consciously engage in slow, mindful breathing, we invite a sense of presence and awareness into our lives. As we focus on each breath, we begin to calm both our body and mind. The rhythmic inhales and exhales serve as an anchor, grounding us in the present and allowing us to disentangle ourselves from the grip of worry. Mindful breathing provides a precious pause amidst the rush, allowing us to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment. 

As we breathe, we become aware of the worry that lingers within us. This heightened awareness empowers us to examine our worries more objectively and challenge their validity. With each mindful breath, we cultivate the ability to respond rather than react, making clear and conscious choices instead of succumbing to the pressure of haste. By embracing the practice of mindful breathing, we tap into our inner wisdom and intuition. We become attuned to the subtle cues and signals that guide us towards making more considered decisions. 

Mindful breathing enables us to consider all factors, weigh different perspectives, and envision the potential outcomes of our choices. As a result, we can navigate through life with greater clarity and confidence, reducing the need for excessive worry. It is important to recognize that thinking clearly and acting wisely does not guarantee a flawless path without challenges or setbacks. However, when we cultivate mindfulness through the power of our breath, we equip ourselves with the tools to face these obstacles with resilience and grace. 

So try slowing down... perhaps now? Or perhaps in the morning routine?, clean your teeth slower, get dressed slower, eat your meal slower, notice what happens to your body & your breath when you do things slowly, how do you feel?