Turn Around Touch The Ground Freeze

Ever felt like life's a treadmill set on high, and you're just trying to keep up? We're all guilty of rushing through our days, barely touching the ground. But what if I told you, slowing down could be as simple as a little game we played as kids? I'm talking about 'Turn Around, Touch the Ground, Freeze' – yes, that one!

Remembering the Game

Picture this: you're in the school playground, running around with your friends. Someone yells "Turn Around, Touch the Ground, Freeze!" and suddenly, everyone's spinning and stooping, trying not to laugh as they freeze mid-movement. It was a moment of chaos, then stillness, then laughter. Simple, right?

Well, it turns out, that game was onto something. It's not just about freezing in funny poses; it's about pausing, being present, and connecting with your body and the world around you. And that, my friends, is something we could all use a bit more of in our grown-up lives.

Why Should We Care?

You might be thinking, "That's all well and good, but I've got deadlines, kids to pick up, dinner to cook. I don't have time for games." I get it. Life's busy. But hear me out – taking a moment to 'freeze' could actually help with all that.

See, when we're constantly rushing, our brains are in 'fight or flight' mode. That's great for outrunning saber-tooth tigers, but not so great for answering emails or making dinner. It makes us anxious, stressed, and less productive. But when we pause, even for a second, our brains switch to 'rest and digest' mode. We think clearer, we're kinder to ourselves and others, and we're more creative.

Plus, it's a great way to check in with your body. How often do you actually feel your feet on the ground? Or notice the temperature of the air on your skin? When we're rushing, we're not present in our bodies, and that can lead to all sorts of aches, pains, and even mental health issues.

Get moving - one for the beginning and the end of the day.

How to 'Freeze' in Everyday Life

So, how do you 'freeze' in the middle of a workday or a bustling city street? It's easier than you think. Here are a few ideas:

• Set a reminder – Set your phone or watch to remind you to 'freeze' every hour. When it goes off, take a minute to stand still, feel your feet on the ground, and take a few deep breaths.
• Use transitions – Make the most of natural pauses in your day. When you're waiting for the kettle to boil, or the traffic lights to change, use that time to 'freeze'.
• Try a quick body scan – This is a mindfulness technique where you mentally scan your body from head to toe, noticing any sensations, tension, or discomfort. It only takes a minute, and it's a great way to connect with your body.
• Make it fun – If you're feeling brave, you could even bring the playground game into your adult life. Next time you're out with friends, suggest a game of 'Turn Around, Touch the Ground, Freeze'. It's a great icebreaker, and it'll have everyone laughing and feeling more connected.

Remember, you don't have to stand still for long. Even a few seconds can make a difference. It's about the principle, not the pose.

Let's Give It a Go

So, next time you're feeling stressed, or your to-do list is looming, give 'freezing' a go. It might feel weird at first, but stick with it. Your body and brain will thank you. And who knows, you might even start to enjoy those little moments of stillness in your otherwise busy day.

After all, as the game taught us, sometimes the best way to move forward is to pause, touch the ground, and freeze.