The mind and the body dance in close and constant rapport, each the others mirror. To adjust either one means a shift in the other. As such we can create a change in attitude by focusing on change in our posture.

One benefit of this behaviour is its simplicity. There’s no immediate need to grapple with the mind’s complexity. Instead you can trust the mind to follow the balance of the body.

To swap the lead from mind to body just spend a minute or two paying attention to how you stand.

As you attend to the body, the conflagrations of the mind step aside for that time. Bodies don’t say any words, but the still mind will notice that they communicate something of great power and depth.

Bodies unfettered by mental concern have a tendency towards a graceful natural harmony. As you stand you may notice a subtle swaying to begin with as your body starts to re-establish its true centre.

As this shift unfolds you may find your head moves such that it looks forward with confidence rather than down in dejection or up in arrogant pretence. Across your brow you may observe a softening of the concentrated worry. Around your mouth a grimace of tension might slide easily into a smile.

Your shoulders might be held up tight until, as you breath out, you release all unnecessary burdens. So done it may be you find it easier to breath life deeply, shoulders back, chest out in an appropriate experience of pride.

You may feel a change in the alignment of your hips, legs and feet as you discover a freedom to head in any direction you choose.  You may feel tall enough to see past obstacles as you notice the flexible strength of your spine supporting you.

Support your body to support you. Take a moment to allow the body’s natural balance to unfold. With your attention this will happen effortlessly, like a flower opening in the morning sun. Do this often and the mind will fall into some affirmative new habits as it reflects the body’s balance.

Martin Hunter Jones is an honorary life member of the Australian Counselling Association. He has a practice on the Northern Beaches. Phone 9973 4997.