MindfulnessJanuary 4, 2026

Hold the Pause: A Simple innerawesome Practice for Intentional Living

By Alex Maizuss

Woman meditating at work, practicing mindful pause

In the rush of daily life, we often forget to pause. The innerawesome practice of 'holding the pause' is a simple yet powerful technique that bridges the gap between reaction and response.

What Is Holding the Pause?

Holding the pause is the practice of creating a deliberate moment of stillness between a stimulus and your response. It's rooted in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and draws from the polyvagal theory of nervous system regulation.

How to Practice

When you notice a moment of stress, frustration, or overwhelm, try these steps:

  • Stop what you're doing and take one conscious breath
  • Notice what you're feeling in your body without judgment
  • Ask yourself: 'What do I actually need right now?'
  • Choose your next action with intention

This simple practice can transform your relationship with stress and help you live with greater intentionality.