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Driving can be stressful and many of us spend hours a week doing it. But if we bring mindfulness to driving, it can actually improve our well-being. Mindful driving begins with clearly seeing the relationship between cause and effect, a cornerstone of Buddhism. American Buddhist monk Thanissaro Bhikkhu teaches that in our search for well-being and happiness, it’s important to question: “What, when I do it, leads to ease and well-being, and what, when I do it, leads to stress and suffering?” This insight can be applied to all aspects of our lives, including how we drive.
Though we cannot predict what will happen on our commute, we can take actions, which are likely to lead to a peaceful drive. To create the conditions for things to go well, prepare yourself for getting behind the wheel. Meditation and exercise have calming effects for many people. Is it possible to engage in one or both of these activities before driving?
Next, try to leave early. Stress or ease can start right there. Is it worth speeding to beat a yellow light? Does the time you save make much difference at the end of the day? If you left home earlier, that yellow light wouldn’t be a problem. Do you feel relaxed or stressed as you speed up to make the light? Mindfulness will help you answer these questions.
If you use your phone or GPS to give you directions, set directions before pulling out, as this will avoid multitasking.
Try traveling in the middle lane if there is one. You’re again creating the conditions for a relaxing drive. In the middle lane, you don’t have to worry about cars entering and leaving the highway. This is mindfulness of your surroundings.
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