Building mindfulness into your everyday life can be a challenge. We start to think that maybe we won’t know if we’re doing it right or not.... if it will work... if it will be difficult...or if we will fail at doing it.
What people don't realize is the power behind practicing mindfulness. It can help build a stronger mind, completely free from anxiety and unwanted emotions.
So what is Mindfulness? According to Mayo Clinic, its a type of mediation which focuses on being aware of what you're feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery, and other practices to relax the body, mind while reducing your stress. Its a proven method of calming your mind, and in some case relieving anxiety as well.
There are simple ways to practice mindfulness in your day to day life:
1. Pay attention: try to take the time to experience your surroundings with all of your senses — touch, sound, sight, smell and taste.
2. Live in the moment: intentionally bring an open, accepting and discerning attention to everything you do. Find joy in simple pleasures of your life.
3. Accept yourself: treat yourself the way you would treat a good friend.
4. Focus on your breathing: when you have negative thoughts, try to sit down, take a deep breath and close your eyes. Focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. Sitting and breathing for even just a minute can help.
If you prefer to follow a structured mindfulness exercises, try these:
Full Body Scan Meditation
This exercise teaches us awareness of our bodies, breath, sensations and thoughts. It's similar to the Savasana pose - lying on your back with your legs extended and arms to your side, palms facing up.
Focus your attention slowly and deliberately on each part of your body, in order, from toe to head or head to toe.
Be aware of any sensations, emotions or thoughts associated with each part of your body.
Sitting Mediation
Sit comfortably with your back straight, feet flat on the floor and hands in your lap. Breathe through your nose and focus on your breath moving in and out.
If physical sensations or thoughts interrupt your meditation, note the experience and then return your focus to your breath.
Walking Mediation
Focus on your experience of walking, being aware of the subtle movements that keep you balance When you reach the end of your path, turn and continue walking, maintaining awareness of your sensations.
At the OLVE, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. This site offers health, fitness tips and is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. For more information please see our terms and conditions.
