Mindful Moments- Driving

This practice is designed to help you bring mindful awareness to the everyday activities that often become automatic in our lives. In the hustle and bustle of daily routines, it’s easy to slip into autopilot, performing tasks like driving without fully engaging with the present moment. However, these routine activities present a valuable opportunity to cultivate mindfulness and deepen your connection to the here and now.

Transcript

Driving can be a time of stress,

Autopilot,

Or downright rage.

It's a prime opportunity to cultivate mindfulness,

Partly because it's a natural transition between one part of your day and another.

If you're the one driving,

Remember that safety is the number one priority.

You may try this practice in a parking lot first,

In a quiet neighborhood,

Or in a place where you feel totally comfortable behind the wheel.

Mindful driving can also help you be less distracted while driving,

Making you a better driver.

Allow this practice to start before you actually begin driving.

Sitting in your car,

Feel the points of contact.

Tune in to the feet on the pedals,

The sensation of sitting in the seat,

And the hands on the wheel.

As you turn your car on,

Feel and hear the sensation of the car starting.

And as you begin moving,

Pay attention to the experience of driving,

Understanding that you don't need to do anything special,

Just watch your experience with present-time awareness.

Notice other cars,

The noises of driving,

And anything else that arise.

Try using a simple noting practice.

When you hear your blinker,

Note,

Blinker,

In your head.

When you turn,

Note,

Turning.

Notice any movement,

Sounds,

Sights,

Or feelings in the body as you drive.

If and when you see another driver,

Try offering a phrase of loving-kindness,

Saying to the person,

May you drive with ease.