Many months ago I traveled outside my zip code to present a leadership program to a group of executives.  As I approached the restroom in this new, state of the art, office building I noticed a sign at the entrance, “Area of Refuge”, I had never seen this before and as I entered the room I looked around and thought, wow, this really is an area of refuge.  The lighting was low, there was muted music playing, a place to sit down next to the sinks, a full-length mirror and it was impeccably clean.  Great idea – area of refuge!

Once back with my colleagues, all male, I asked if they too had an “area of refuge”.  I’m sure some of you are laughing already but believe me, I had no idea.  Being the great world travelers they were, they told me the restrooms are the designated areas for severe weather.  We were in tornado alley and the area of refuge was literally, not figuratively, refuge from the storm.  Well, being the great sport that I am, we had a huge laugh.

That story came to me recently when exploring spirituality with a group of nurses.  We were looking specifically at the practice of meditation.  I had encouraged all of them to schedule at least 5 minutes each day to meditate, journal, and bring their experience back to the group.  More than one of these women offered that the best place to practice meditation during the day, while at work, was in the restroom.  Instantly my mind flashed back to Area of Refuge!

These women proved my point.  The restroom can be a great place to seek refuge from both the literal and figurative storm.  And we all know this doesn’t only apply to nurses; moms, executives, executive assistants, any work, any time, we could all use a little refuge.

Here’s my challenge to you…give it a try.  Head to the restroom, in your workspace or home space and follow these easy steps:

1. Close the door

2. Lean against the wall, the door, the stall (make sure you’re safe and supported)

3. Close your eyes

4. Shut out the noise (you might have headphones or earbuds, I put my fingers in my ears – seriously – it works)

5. Breath in deeply, hold it for a few counts, exhale slowly

6. Repeat this process 4 or 5 times

7. As you’re breathing in, holding, exhaling, imagine letting go of the stressor(s), tension, anxiety.  Let go from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet.  Break the stress cycle.

8. Open your eyes, get your bearings and get back to it

If you find yourself headed into a difficult situation and need a few minutes to prepare, remember you can always say, “Be right there, going to run to the restroom real quick.”  Set yourself straight, get your bearings, and get back to it.  Meditation in a pinch only takes a minute.

Would love to hear how it works for you.

Let’s get to it!