Zen Dishes

I have begun to notice that I tense my shoulders when I clean or while working on regular household tasks during the day. I also noticed that my breathing becomes more shallow. For about nine months, I have had the lofty goal of being more zen about doing the dishes. Relaxing into it. Finding myself. Finding the peace. I mean, this is what life is made of. Not just the cooking but preparing for the cooking. Putting things in their place and being happy in that present moment that I get to do it. Breathing deeply and taking in my surroundings and not having to think hard. Being really present with those dishes and other household activities for that matter makes them more enjoyable. Sound fruity or pie-in-the-sky? I think it's really important that we take the time to breathe into every aspect of our day. I feel more connected with my life. I see better ways to get things done. We know that what we focus on expands. Even in that moment of dishes, suds and sponges, focusing on the peace really does make me more peaceful. Mind you, it took about nine months to get to this point.