“What you chose to think, do or say in the next 30 seconds may influences the entire mood of your day”
This is not a very long post and it doesn’t need to be. Its a fabulous little trick I learnt last year at a yoga therapy training program with Judith Lassater. It was also hugely helpful at a recent course I did called Physiological First Aid with Lifeline.
For me it was one of those “light bulb” moments. Its all about “the art of listening” and truely receiving the words being communicated to you.
Your body offers a simple gesture that then triggers your mind to listen attentively. It also clearly shows the other person you are fully present with their words.
When someone is speaking to you simply clasp your hands together – preparing your body and your mind for the act of listening. You are cleverly switching from talking, doing or living in your head mode to listening mode.
* No answering the person in your head.
* No interupting half way and finishing their words for them.
* No dismissing their words with weird facial expressions
* No multi-tasking at the same time
* No yawning
* No looking around
Be in the moment and listen fully by clasping your hands together and switching your focus to the act of listening.
You might also be interested in a great little book called What We Say Matters: Practicing Nonviolent Communication
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My recent book recommendations:
Restful Yoga for Stressful Times by Judith Lassater
Chakra Foods for Optimum Health by Dr. Deanna Minich
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This is indeed a good advise, thank you!
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Love it! Thank you so much for this easy exercise!
This is a wonderful reminder for me. I often interrupt people, and have blamed my hearing. I try hard to hear, but forget to listen. I have been practicing mindful listening since reading this yesterday. Thank you.
Thrilled you all liked it. Yes, Kirsten I too am a little prone to interrupting but you’ll find the clasped hands helps heaps.
Peace, love and chocolate Carole
I liked this article. It was so great.
This is such a wonderful exercise. I found this website today and I know that I am going to enjoy reading it immensely 🙂
Thanks Mon xxxx Carole
[…] How to really listen […]