The Mundane

Journaling is a great way to reduce stress, get clarity, and develop gratitude. Some days can feel monotonous, boring, and mundane. But, what if you flipped the idea of a mundane task into some kind of beautiful ceremony? 

We can use writing as a way to reframe our perspective on boring tasks. Writing about a mundane topic can get us to see the details and intricacies that we generally miss because we don’t necessarily want to be doing the task. Think about a mundane task that you need to do and write about it as if it were a beautiful experience. Write about the task as if you love it and see where it takes you. 

The Zen of Dishwashing

Let’s begin with the task of washing dishes. Try describing the beauty of the experience. If you’re having difficulty finding joy in the task of washing dishes, try these suggestions by Sr True Dedication in the article, The Zen of Dishwashing (link below): 
“3. Release the tension. Holding your breath? Tension in the jaw? Shoulders up tight? Hand squeezing the sponge like your life depends on it? Which muscles would need to reconfigure to allow yourself to smile?  
4. Connect your mind to the present moment, and the feel of water on your skin, dish in your hands. Release any resentment. Smile to any lingering regrets or anxiety, and gently bring the mind 100% to bear on what’s going on right now.  
5. Check-in with your body. Can you feel the soles of your feet on the floor? How’s your back? Allow 100% of your body to participate in the act of dishwashing.”

How else could you practice the Zen of Dishwashing?

Try This

• Set aside time to journal for at least 15 minutes.
• Note how you are feeling in the moment before writing.
• Choose a mundane task as a topic for journaling. 
• Begin by describing the task as a beautiful ceremony.
• Continue writing for at least 15 minutes. 
• Note how you feel after writing.

References:

• The Art of Dishwashing
• The art of washing dishes
• How To / The Zen of Dishwashing