Hi all,
I wanted to share a habit which has helped me:
- relax and release tension;
- slow my mind, to focus and perform the OSA exercises; and
- become more calm and think more clearly throughout the day
and in general.
It's very simple and consists of:
- a pot of chamomile tea (or any herbal tea); and
- just sitting, not really doing anything else.
I think part of the benefit is the tea itself - I do believe chamomile has calming effects, but also just having a warm drink which is not caffeinated is helpful. The other beneficial part is just taking the time to let your mind settle and your body relax.
I set this time aside and allow myself to not be concerned with thoughts, feelings or things I have to do. It's essentially like meditation (but not very strict), whereby if particular thoughts of feelings arise - I notice them and then try to let them go. They might be important, but it's not the time for me to act on them or let them consume me. I just breathe, maybe sense my body, and drink the tea.
I try to do this for 15-20 minutes every morning when I wake up, and when I get home from work. It's a good way to start the morning, with a clear mind and relaxed body (rather than jumping on the internet and filling the mind with stuff); and it's a good way to relax and 'reset' into your evening, after having finished work.
It mightn't be for everybody but I've got a lot out of this really simple habit. I find it's less difficult and more enjoyable than serious, more strict meditation.
Hope it's useful for someone out there 
