Ever find yourself running late for a meeting, only to realize you forgot to switch your laundry from the washer to the dryer before rushing out the door? Or wonder if you remembered to take the chicken out of the freezer for dinner? My mind often feels like a never-ending swirl of thoughts, worries, and an endless to-do list.
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re constantly urged to stay busy, to be productive, to check things off our lists. And while productivity is important, how often do we take a moment to slow down, reset, or just breathe? It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, but the truth is—sometimes, hitting pause is the most productive thing we can do.
This is where yoga comes in.
When we practice yoga, whether it’s through intentional movement or a few moments of stillness, we’re doing more than just stretching. We’re signaling to our body that it’s okay toslow down, to release that constant sense of urgency. By pairing poses with breath, or simply sitting in mindful stillness, we create space to let go of anxious thoughts and bring ourselves into the present moment.
Yoga is not just about flexibility or strength—it’s about reconnecting with yourself and your surroundings. The simple act of moving slowly and breathing deeply tells our nervous system that we are safe. It allows us to shift away from “fight-or-flight” mode, calming our bodies and minds. When that happens, we can focus on what’s truly important in the here and now.
I used to rush out the door, overwhelmed by my never-ending list of tasks. But now, before I dive into the whirlwind of the day, I take just 5-10 minutes for myself—a few gentle stretches, a moment of stillness, and a breath of clarity. When I open my eyes again, I’m ready to face the day with a renewed sense of focus and peace.
So, if you’re feeling the weight of your own to-do list, take a moment to pause, breathe, and reset. Yoga can help you find that balance—and it doesn’t have to be a huge time commitment to feel the benefits.
Namaste.
Amy Kendall is a 200-hour Registered Yoga teacher. She teaches trauma and grief informed gentle yoga, chair yoga, and mindfulness at The Center for Grief and Trauma Therapy in Pike Creek, DE.
