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Flying High: The Art of Not Noticing



Flying Home

Recently, while traveling to spend time with friends, I noticed that my "seat neighbor" was leaning onto my side of the armrest. Now, my "seat neighbor" was a sweet little old lady, and she apologized for her intrusion into my space. I smiled and verbalized that she was ok. It's the people moving around her who were unaware of their backpacks swinging into her space, almost hitting her in the face, who have the problem! We giggled, and she held my forearm. I'm not too shy to care if anyone heard my remark or not. I was actually hoping that someone did hear me so that they could stop endangering this poor little lady.


As everyone starts getting settled into their seat, the gentleman sitting in front of her starts thrusting his seat backwards, almost hitting her in the chin. She turned and looked at me with her eyes wide open. I returned the look and said, "Oh my!" Then we immediately started laughing. See, this was both of our second attempts to travel home, as our original flights were canceled the day before. We were so happy to be on the plane getting ready to take off that we didn't complain about the lack of self-awareness that was taking place all around us. We just knew that now we had to stay on our toes by being hyper-aware of what was taking place around us.


Clouds
Clouds

Which leads me to share my message: Be Aware of the Humans Around You


How much time does it take for you to look behind yourself before taking a step back?


How valuable would it be to the person behind you to feel seen and considered?


How good will it make you feel to show kindness and consideration to another?


Would you appreciate the same courtesy to be extended to you?


If we take a few moments each day to do something kind or considerate for just one person at a time, we will notice that it makes us feel good. There is a warm, fuzzy feeling that comes over you that is unexplainable. Consider paying kindness forward so that you can receive it back at a later time when you need it the most.


I know you might be thinking, well, most of the time I am in a rush and I just don't have time to stop and think about others. At times when you feel like you are rushing, I encourage you to take a moment to stop and box breathe. You can do this multiple times a day, as many times as you need. And it can be done in just three steps:


Step 1: Simply inhale for a 4-count

Step 2: Hold your breath for a 4-count

Step 3: Then slowly exhale for a 4-count...repeat as many times as you need!


This technique allows you to re-center your thoughts and emotions to bring you a sense of calm. Box breathing also helps reduce anxiety if you find yourself to be an anxious person.

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So the next time that you are traveling, whether you are flying, taking the bus, or taking the train, first box breathe and set your intentions for your travel experience. When you arrive at the airport, or wherever appropriate, take a moment to be mindful of your surroundings and spread consideration and kindness by being aware of the people around you. Say excuse me, pardon yourself if you accidentally bump into someone. Just show a little kindness.


Until next time...With love, Tee Marie 🧡



 
 
 

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