Mindfulness

Mindfulness

What is mindfulness?                                                                                   

“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; On purpose, in the present moment and non-judgmentally.” (Jon Kabat-Zinn).

But what does that really mean for me? It means:

-          Being in control of your mind rather than letting your mind be in control of you

-          Full awareness: being aware of the present moment without judgement

-          Staying focused on one thing at a time with your full attention on that one thing

-          Being focused on what’s happening right now in this moment – without rejecting it or judging it.

-          Accepting that it’s okay to be right where we are right now.

What are some the benefits of practicing mindfulness?

Practicing mindfulness has a lot of positive emotional, mental, and physical benefits. A regular practice can help you by:

-          Improving your overall physical health, including reducing physical pain

-          Improving overall mental health, including your mood and lowering anxiety

-          Reducing your emotional suffering and increasing your sense of well-being

-          Helping to focus your attention

-          Increasing compassion for self and others

-          Giving you more choices and more control over your behavior

How can I practice mindfulness in my daily life?

You can be mindful at any place and at any time! Try it out by:

-          Getting into a comfortable position (on the floor, in a chair, wherever you like!)

-          Closing your eyes or keeping them open – try both and see what works best for you

-          Keeping perfectly still

-          Taking a few deep breaths

-          Focusing on what your breath feels like as it enters and leaves your body

-          Letting go of thoughts, feelings, distractions – allowing your thoughts to wander without trying to control them

-          Noticing sounds or scents around you in the moment