However devoid of nature your part of the city may be, a view of the sky is always possible, and with it comes the delight of being able to observe the clouds which are forever changing in both form and colour. Taking some time to watch the clouds drift by can be a great way of de-stressing and reducing anxiety.
The clouds are a visible part of our natural life-support system that is planet earth. The clouds are part of the hydrological cycle that keeps water circulating around the planet. Meteorology or the study of weather, is a fascinating subject. However, having an interest and understanding of meteorology is not required to appreciate the beauty of the sky and the clouds and to reap the benefit of having a micro-break simply by watching them for a minute or two from time to time.
Casting an eye to the skies is something that anyone can do at any time (even from inside) and allows an instant connection to our incredible planet. It can also help us to de-stress from our busy lives by being 'in the moment'.
A lovely relaxing, mindfulness activity is to find a comfortable spot (either indoors or outside), where you have a good view of the sky. A comfortable seat looking out of the window, or a seat on a bench outside with a view, or if it is a nice day, lying on the ground staring up at the sky. Get comfortable and start by becoming conscious of the rhythm of your breathing. Consciously think about your in breath and out breath whilst watching the clouds drifting by. Simply spend some time watching and witnessing the clouds slowly moving and morphing shape. You may notice different layers and types of clouds. You may even see clouds moving in opposite directions or slowly appearing or disappearing. Simply spend a few minutes observing.
Our thoughts are often described as being like clouds drifting in and out of our mind, and whilst meditating on the clouds, you may become conscious that your mind has wandered and your thoughts are drifting in and out too. This is perfectly natural. Don’t beat yourself up about ‘losing concentration’ or not ‘doing it right’. Simply bring your attention back to the clouds moving and changing. Once you have had enough, simply bring your attention back to your breathing and surroundings. How do you feel now? Take your time getting up, especially if you have been lying down.
It is a super tranquil thing to do and something you could do just as a two-minute mindfulness break during your working day, or as a longer practice whenever you find you have a good view of the sky. It is particularly lovely to do where you have an uninterrupted vista of the sky, or at sunset when colours can really change quickly. Why not give it a go?
‘Having your head in the clouds, even for just a few minutes each day, is good for your mind, good for your body, and good for your soul.’ - Gavin Pretor-Pinney
‘The clouds don’t overthink; they just drift.’ - Avijeet Das
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