A Five-Minute Practice

Set a clean towel within reach. Let the basin be empty.

The first minute

Run the water to a comfortable temperature. Wet your hands, then turn off the tap. Notice the warmth before reaching for the soap.

The second minute

Wash your hands, including between the fingers and around the thumbs. Turn the water on to rinse, then off again.

The third minute

Briefly run the water to wet a clean washcloth, then turn it off. Wring out the cloth. Pass it gently over your face, or leave it resting in your hands for a moment. Set it aside for washing.

The fourth minute

Dry slowly enough to reach the places you usually miss. Feel the towel between your fingers.

The fifth minute

Briefly rinse the basin, turn off the tap, and wipe away the splashes. Hang the towel so it can dry.

Leave the room ready for whoever comes next.