From Workouts to Washing Dishes
Every time I lace up my sneakers or rinse a plate in the sink, I’m presented with a simple invitation to slow down, breathe, and be fully present. We have all at one point been told or advised to “try practicing mindfulness”. What does that mean exactly? Mindfulness is the act of being present and aware of what you’re sensing (smelling, tasting, touching, seeing, or hearing). It means being present, immersed, or engaged in the moment. This means that everyday activities such as daily household chores (washing the dishes, folding laundry, vacuuming, etc), eating a delicious meal, brushing your teeth, and physical activity can be used to practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness often shows up in our workouts more naturally than we realize. When we move our bodies, we’re constantly guided back to the present by physical cues. The rise and fall of our breath, the steady beat of our heart, or the feeling of muscles contracting and releasing. Even the simple rhythm of walking or stretching can act like an anchor when our thoughts start to wander. Paying attention to these sensations helps create a stronger mind-body connection, making exercise feel less like a task and more like a moment of clarity. Using
each rep, stride, or inhale as a check-in point can calm racing thoughts, sharpen focus, and help reduce tension built up throughout the day. And as a bonus, movement doesn’t just support mindfulness, it also boosts good endorphins (serotonin and dopamine), adding a natural lift to your mood. Over time, exercise stops being just a physical effort and becomes a grounding practice that supports emotional balance, presence, and overall well-being.
Mindfulness isn’t limited to workouts or quiet moments. It can show up in the most ordinary parts of the day. Simple tasks like washing dishes, taking a shower, eating a yummy meal, or brushing our teeth offer chances to slow down and reconnect with our senses. Noticing the warmth of the water, the sound of your electric toothbrush, the texture of food, or the scent of soap turns routine actions into small pauses where your mind can settle. Instead of moving through the day on autopilot, these brief moments of presence become opportunities to breathe, rest, and ground yourself right where you are.
About Barbara Schmanski:
Barbara is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and everyday stressors. Barbara integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices in her approach, aiming to create a collaborative and compassionate space where clients feel heard and empowered. To learn more about Barbara, click HERE.