Stress happens even for nuns.

When I was a nun, I sometimes felt the stress and anxiety of managing ministry (work) and life. 

The novitiate is one of the stages of becoming a nun, a time of intense study and prayer. 

My novice director, Sister Rosemary, was the sister who was my companion and guide during this time. She had a round face with bright rose-colored cheeks that radiated joy whenever she walked into a room. 

Sr. Rosemary had this full-bodied laugh that empowered you to enjoy life to the fullest. She could also read people really well and sense when others were stressed or worried.

Sister Rosemary used 1 word to help us novices pause whenever she sensed we were stressed. 

She would often say to me, "Breathe."  It was a code word to stop, pause, take a deep breath, and focus on your purpose, on why you are doing what you're doing. It was a signal for mindfulness. 

Whenever I did this, I noticed that the stress I felt minimized, and life came into perspective again.  

The Value of the Pause

Pausing doesn't have to be an extended period. 

Taking time to breathe deeply, journal, or go for a short walk does wonders for refreshing your mindset and refocusing your purpose.

The pause can be a valuable tool for consistent mindfulness.

Micro-Journaling for Consistent Mindfulness

One way to practice the pause is through micro-journaling.

Micro-journaling includes time to pause, reflect, and journal with 1-sentence or a few words in 3-7 minutes daily.

1-sentence journaling can be a refreshing pause to practice mindfulness and manage stress.

Give yourself time to breathe and begin with 1 sentence.