I usually reserve my more 'thoughtful' posts for Sunday's Weekend Meditation slot but today I realized that we often need a little reminder to slow down and pay attention mid-week, too. As a matter of fact, I suspect that mid-week is when we need such things more than ever. So please ...

Make yourself a cup of tea, your most favorite kind. Mine is a hearty, malty Assam if I'm feeling fancy or the jolly, triangular-shaped PG Tips bag if things can't get too complicated. I also appreciate a splash of milk. You could just pour yourself a cup of water, too. Whatever it is that your drinking, be sure that it is something you actually enjoy.

While that's brewing, find a plate (a real one, the kind that would break if dropped) and something sweet, or at least delicious. Today I have the last two of a dozen Mexican Wedding Cake cookies that I bought over the weekend from the bakery down the hill. What ever your treat is (a ham sandwich, a handful of almonds, a slice of cheese) put it on the plate.

Either make a tray with the tea, a napkin and your delicious plate or balance everything precariously in your hands. Go somewhere away from where you usually spend your day. Away from your desk, or lab, or counter. Away from the cash register, the laptop, the ringing phone. (Unless your wife is about to go into labor, please leave your mobile behind.) Find a window and sit near it, so you can look out into the world.

Drink your tea (or whatever) and look out the window and as far off as you can. Find the farthest horizon point, the most distant object to rest your gaze. All day long we're often staring at something a few inches from our face -- a screen, most likely, or a piece of paper in our hands, or a desktop. It's often very relaxing and replenishing to allow your sight to stretch towards a distant point.

Or if all that is too much, just consider the change of scenery.

Eat what's on your plate. Drink the rest of your beverage. Take a moment to be in the moment and then head back to your usual place. Along the way, stop in the nearest kitchen and wash your dishes. Put them away. Complete the interlude. Come full circle. Enjoy your life.

Related: Favorite Product: PG Tips Tea

(Image: Dana Velden)