The how
Here is the way to incorporate Centered in your life as a new habit.
THE DAILY CENTERING PRACTICE
15 Minutes a Day. Three Simple Habits.
Just 15 intentional minutes each day dedicated to reconnecting with ourselves.
For the next 30 days, I’m inviting you to join me in practicing three habits.
01. BE STILL — 5 MINUTES
Take five minutes to disconnect from distractions.
You can meditate, pray, practice breathing exercises, or simply sit quietly. An app I love is called Open and some use Calm.
You don’t need to stop your thoughts or force yourself to feel peaceful.
The goal is simply to become more aware of what’s happening within you.
02. BE GRATEFUL — 5 MINUTES
Take five minutes to reflect on what you’re grateful for.
Write down three things you appreciate about your life or something positive that happened during your day.
They can be big or small.
The goal is to begin training our attention toward the things we might otherwise overlook.
03. BE PRESENT — 5 MINUTES
Spend five minutes fully engaged in the present moment.
Go for a short walk.
Sit outside.
Stretch.
Enjoy your morning coffee.
Notice the sounds, sights, and sensations around you.
Whatever you choose, try doing it without your phone or another distraction.
The goal isn’t to accomplish something. It’s simply to be present.
PRACTICALLY
YOUR 30-DAY CHALLENGE
For the next 30 days, commit to practicing these three habits as consistently as you can.
- 5 minutes of stillness: Meditation, prayer, breathing, or silence.
- 5 minutes of gratitude: Write down three things you’re thankful for.
- 5 minutes of presence: Spend time fully engaged with your surroundings.
Consistency matters more than perfection.
The Steps
RESOURCES RECOMMENDED BY OUR COMMUNITY
As part of this month’s discipline, I also wanted to share some of the resources recommended by people in our community.
These aren’t requirements for participating. They’re simply tools that others have found helpful.
The Five Minute Journal
A structured journaling practice focused on gratitude, reflection, and setting daily intentions.
Explore The Five Minute Journal
Insight Timer
A meditation platform offering guided practices, meditation teachers, and resources for developing a daily mindfulness routine.
Calm
An app offering guided meditations, sleep stories, breathing exercises, and relaxation resources.
Tara Brach — Radical Acceptance
Books, podcasts, and guided meditations exploring mindfulness, compassion, and self-acceptance.
One Minute Pause
A guided prayer and meditation app offering short moments of reflection from a Christian perspective.
The purpose isn’t to judge ourselves.
It’s to become more aware.
And with awareness comes the opportunity to make more intentional choices.
Be still. Be grateful. Be present.