How to be mindful while washing the dishes?

[Pnigro]

Hello everyone,

I was reading Peace is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh a while ago and he suggested to bring the awareness to the breath while doing housework such as washing the dishes.

What I don't understand is this:

How can I be completely mindful of washing the dishes if I'm focusing on my breath? Shouldn't I be focused on the dish itself, the sensation of water in my hands, and the activity of washing? Or should I be focused on both my breath and at the same time the washing of the dishes?

I have found that if I focus my awareness on my breath then the washing of the dishes becomes like the "background" activity.

[piedwagtail91]

When you mindfuly do the dishes you don't rest awareness on the breath.you're aware of the dishes,the water temperature,the sounds, the soap suds. etc.
When your mind wanders you simply return to the dishes.
The same applies to other activities, you're fully aware in the moment whatever activity

[Jaizkibel]

I completely agree with piedwagtail91. Breath is just an "anchor", something to be aware of, something to focus on. We usually is it as an anchor because it's always there (it would be bad new if it weren't there ), but you can be aware of whatever you decide.

I pay attention to the breath when I'm practicing sitting meditation because it's what I have, but when I'm doing the dishes I pay attention to the dishes, when I eat I try to pay attention to eating...