Today we'll focus on the topic of mindfulness including what it is and how to practice it. Mindfulness may sound like a strange concept, but it is simply the act of being fully present and aware of your surroundings, your thoughts, and your emotions.
We often find ourselves rushing around from task to task while fixating on the past or worrying about the future. This can lead us to neglect being present in the moment, which can result in feelings of stress, anxiety, and even depression. With mindfulness, we can learn to quiet our minds, live in the moment, and find a sense of peace and calm.
So, how can mindfulness help you? Practicing mindfulness has been shown to have numerous benefits for both our mental and physical health. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving our focus and concentration. This can help in lowering our blood pressure and improving our quality of sleep.
The following are a few ways to get started with daily mindfulness practice:
-
Do a Body Scan: During this exercise, relax your body and focus on breathing deeply and becoming aware of your bodily sensations without trying to change them. This is to develop an awareness of sensations in your body.
-
Deep Breathing Activity: Set a timer for 3 minutes and focus solely on deep inhalation and exhalation.
-
Take a Mindful Walk: When walking, focus on your surroundings, turn the music off, and be present in the moment by using your senses. Focus on what you see, hear, and smell around you. Notice the way your feet feel as they touch the ground and the way your body moves with each step.
Mindfulness is not confined to a single exercise or bound by a three-minute time limit. With consistent practice over time, you can integrate mindfulness into a variety of activities, making it easier to achieve the benefits it offers.