Mindfulness is a concept that has always been associated with yoga but has started to become part of other disciplines as well. Mindfulness can make your workouts with your Boss Ballet Barre more effective and rewarding. Here are three ways you can incorporate mindfulness into your barre workout today.
Simple Meditation
Meditation doesn't require long periods of time seated, deep in thought, or complicated practices. A brief meditation right before your barre workout can help to bring your awareness to your body, and your goal for your workout. Your simple meditation can be only a few moments, or longer if you have the time. Here is an easy way to start: Step up to your barre, lightly place your hands on it and close your eyes. Take a few relaxed breaths and try to quiet your mind. Do a scan of your body. Are you tense anywhere? Notice any aches or pains? Feel any tightness or imbalances? Next, roll your shoulders gently a few times, and stretch your neck side to side. Return to your center, and with eyes closed, begin this mediation: As you inhale, think to yourself the phrase "I am breathing in" as you exhale, think to yourself the phrase "I am breathing out". Do this only a few times, or continue it longer if you like. When you are done, gently blink your eyes open and you are ready to begin your workout.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises can help during your barre workout when things get challenging and you feel tempted to quit. They can also help in moments of stress throughout your day. Conscious and mindful breathing can reduce stress, relieve tension in the body, and encourage an overall sense of well being. Here is an easy exercise to start with: Sitting or standing quietly, intentionally lengthen your breath. Inhale through your nose, and exhale deeply through the mouth. The beauty of this is that you can do it anywhere and at any time.
Make a List
Before you step up to the barre, plot out your workout on paper. Set an intention or a goal for your workout and write it at the top in bold letters. Approaching your barre workout with a plan adds a level of mindfulness to each movement. You already know what's coming next and what you need to do to get there.
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