How to Stay Mindful When Sick

Photo by Karolina Grabowska: https://www.pexels.com/photo/sick-woman-working-on-laptop-6028522/

It's that time of year again when the "creeping crud" as my mother calls it, rears its ugly head. Colds, flu, and various other "crud" can make you congested and not want to attempt to meditate or be mindful. How can I sit quietly and breathe when I can't even breathe??

Studies have shown that when focused on pain, congestion, or illness it magnifies the symptoms whereas using mindfulness you may not lessen the symptoms but become less focused on them allowing you to feel a modicum better. So, as I grab my tissues, hot tea, and blanket this morning let's talk about mindfulness while sick.

Mindfulness can be practiced in any position. Lay down if that is comfortable. Prop up on a pillow, if necessary, to help with the congestion. Snuggle in and get comfortable.

Use the resources around you to find your focal point. We've discussed using your breath as a focal point at length but when you are congested using your beath as a focal point can become almost impossible. Now, let's use some other techniques.

Focus on the feeling of the clothing you are wearing, the sheets under you if you are in bed, the way the light is filtering through your window. You could light a candle and focus on the flame or imagine a candle flame in your mind. Anything that will allow you to concentrate on something other than the sensations of your illness.

Take the time to notice all the qualities of your focus point. The way the flame dances, how the light changes as clouds pass over head, the softness of the sheets beneath you. Focus on those things and be present in the current moment for as long as it is comfortable for you. Mindfulness while ill doesn't have to be a long session.

May you be happy, may you be healthy, and may you avoid the creeping "crud" for as long as possible this season.

-A