I take a public shuttle to and from work. The bus that’s waiting at our parking lot leaves when the next one arrives- in the morning rush there’s really no ‘schedule’. Today I pulled into my parking lot and a bus was there waiting. “Oh good,” I thought. “I can park and jump right on the bus, making it quick and smooth to get to the hospital today!”

As I was walking to the bus, it pulled away. “Oh MAN! Now I’ll have to sit waiting on this next one for who-knows how long…”

I climbed the steps and greeted the driver, taking the seat of my choice as I was the first one to board. My immediate thought was to grumble about how long I’d have to sit on this bus which was followed by the next option: look at my cell phone to distract myself. Two more hospital employees boarded the bus and both pulled out their electronic devices. I guess that’s what we use to avoid boredom or pain.

In that very moment I realized- I have a choice!

I can sit here, mindlessly texting or monkey-mind complaining. OR I can use my time wisely. I chose the latter.

I closed my eyes, sat up straight, and placed both feet fully on the floor. Yes, I started meditating- right there on the bus!

Now of course it started getting noisier and noisier as more and more people filled up the seats. But what better way to practice? And yes, I probably looked a bit silly sitting there with my eyes closed. But maybe fellow passengers just thought I was catching a quick nap? I had my hands in my pockets so no one could see that I had my thumb to first finger, closing the loop and connecting the energy. I wasn’t chanting, panting, or making any noise. I was just sitting there, focusing on my breath.

And in those moments, as we waited to pull away from the curb I got a little ‘self-care’ in.

So those of you who are feeling too busy, so overwhelmed, and very pressed for time I challenge you- where can you ease a self-care practice literally into your day? Is there a choice you can make in an instant that will give you five minutes of health? What can you let go of, what distraction can you put down, to make more time for yourself?

A breathing exercise, a meditation, a gratitude practice- those are just a few examples. But I bet the creativity and work-around skills that you possess as a nurse can help you get five minutes of wellness juiced into your day. Let’s hear from you! What other suggestions, ideas, or ingenious activities can you think of to take better care of you?

And if you’re struggling with the tension of commitment suffocation, join us Thursday November 14th. I am sharing a wellness webinar and you’re invited! Click here for more details.