This is one of my favourite mindfulness exercises. And the best part? It is really easy to do. I find this one especially helpful as a highly sensitive person because my mind likes to think a lot, and with that, think very deeply. This means that I will often be washing the dishes and also thinking about what is coming up in my work week. Or, I will be gardening and also thinking about my relationships. Or… my all time favourite… I will be in the shower, and also thinking about the conversation I had three weeks ago at an outing with my friend’s coworker’s brother’s wife... Okay, big exaggeration, but I know there will be some of you who can relate! This is where one thing at a time comes in. It literally is exactly what it sounds like: only do one thing at a time. So, this means that when you are washing dishes, only wash the dishes. When you are gardening, only garden. And when you are showering…. just shower! It can also apply when you are doing two activities at once. For example: watching a show with your partner, but also playing a game on your phone, or sitting on your porch to enjoy an evening while also deleting old emails. Yes, helpful at times. But taking moments to do just one thing at a time is going to help your mind and body relax a bit more. Especially when you are highly sensitive and overstimulation can happen quite quickly. Give your nervous system a rest. Try it. One thing at a time. Use it as a mantra throughout your day.
