Mindfulness - The basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what's going on around us.
Mindfulness can be cultivated through a practice like meditation. It's all about taking a moment to be present. To take note of how you feel, what you hear, what you can smell, what you can see, how you are breathing. It can help to use these tools in times of overwhelm or stress and anxiety.
Other benefits include:
1. It helps you slow down.
2. It helps you know yourself better.
3. Helps you stress less.
4. Helps you to change your bad habits.
5. It helps you to focus or concentrate.
6. It leads to more self-acceptance and compassion for others.
7. Helps you to be more resilient.
8. Leads to a more enjoyable life.
9. Enhanced self-insight and intuition.
10. Creates peace of mind.
You don't have to take mindfulness on faith. It is evidence-based. With many science-based studies conducted, with clear evidence on the benefits of regular mindfulness practice.
For example, mindfulness in the workplace has been popularised by large companies including Google. Initial studies show that mindfulness in the workplace can have a number of positive effects, including a decrease in stress and better concentration and memory (read more here).
There are many ways to incorporate a mindfull practice into your daily routine. It can range from being more present in daily tasks to sitting down and meditating. My favorite ways to be mindful in my life are:
1. Getting out in nature.
2. Sitting down for a guided meditation in a quiet space.
3. Closing my eyes and taking some long, deep and meaningful breaths.
4. Tidy and spring clean my house/personal space.
5. Turning off all technology and just being in the quiet of my house.
6. Mindful listening. On the train to work, just listen to what's happening around you. Don't think too much about it, just take it in and let it go without judgment.
I really love this illustration of how to be mindful in your faily life from @anneliesdraws on Instagram.
By creating a mindful practice for yourself, you will start to feel more relaxed and when hard and tense situations arise you will be able to handle it much better, from a place of clarity and strength rather than anxiety.
I would love to know if you practice any of these or want to start practicing, Let me know!
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