Becoming more mindful

An important practice – allowing you to notice, appreciate and acknowledge small things around you. But why has it become so important – especially in the fast paced environment that we all face?

Being able to just let the mind wander, when so busy and in such a rush as we are in today’s society, enables you to think of new ideas, solve problems that have been on your mind and, most importantly, be present. When last were you present in your stressful day?

Whether you are keen to follow a formal or casual mindfulness practice, here are some great reasons to become more mindful.

Mindfulness can be practiced at any time of the day, during any activity. But if you have never practised being mindful, where do you start?

Well, take a deep breath, hold for a minute and release. Take a pause. Where are you now? What are you doing? Listen to what you hear, focus on what you hear. Feel what your hands are feeling, what your feet, legs, muscles, finger tips are sensing. Pause and listen for a moment. Don’t engage in thoughts of the days activities or the stresses you are facing.

Just Pause.

Mindfulness is this practise, practising the ability to take stock of what is going on around you, within you. Allowing the mind to wander, acknowledging thought but not focusing on it. Allowing your mind a chance to acknowledge, focus on, appreciate the things around you. Allowing those sensations to take centre stage.

In these situations, using breath as an anchor allows you to be aware of the present moment.

Anytime you feel lost or confused or frustrated, gently narrow the focus and return awareness to the sensation of the breath.

Sounds simple right?

You can practise mindfulness throughout the day, at specific moments. When you are frustrated, tense or stressed. Just a few mindful moments a day could change your outlook – even practised casually.

Useful habits you’ll encounter from practising mindfulness include appreciating the little things and noticing those around you. Have you ever been so ennamered with your cellphone? Mindfulness can help pull you out of this type of rut and open your eyes to the moments that happen around you!

Mindfulness is exciting, but expect your mind to wander. If you do notice any tendency for self judgement and gently return focus to your breathing.

This takes practise so ease yourself into mindful moments during your day! Let me know if you’ve practised mindfulness and if its helped you get through those stressful moments in life!