“Our life is shaped by our mind, for we become what we think.” ~ Buddha
Practicing mindfulness (being aware of the present moment without judgement) can allow you to harness the energy of your thoughts and shape the trajectory of your life’s journey.
Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery, and other practices to relax the body and mind and help reduce stress.
Practicing mindfulness exercises can help you direct your attention away from negative thinking and engage with the world around you.
There are many ways to practice mindfulness. Mayo Clinic has outlined how you can be mindful in your daily life.
Start Small
Starting small means taking 5 minutes or so out of your day and dedicating it to yourself. These 5 minutes can bring a new perspective, positivity and calmness to whatever stress is weighing down on you. Take the time to focus on your senses, breathing, body and environment.
Accept Yourself and Be Open to Change
The Mayo Clinic suggests treating yourself as you would treat a friend. In avoiding self-criticism and negative self-talk, you’re demonstrating mindfulness by practicing to regulate damaging thought patterns.
It’s easy to be very critical and judgmental throughout the day, even unintentionally. Being open to trying new things and thinking a different way can open the door for a new way of life. Change can lead to progress, even some changes that are frightening at first.
Fit Mindfulness Into Your Lifestyle
It only takes a few minutes per day to decrease your stress levels through mindfulness. Find these moments in your day. They might be transitional periods, like right after work, between tasks or after meals. You can also dedicate a space in your home to mindfulness by setting up a quiet and comfortable area to practice connecting with yourself.
Mindfulness can be practiced wherever and whenever, but The Mayo Clinic notes engaging your senses outdoors is especially beneficial. You might go for a walk as an opportunity to increase your mindfulness, or even just take advantage of the moments in your day when you find yourself outdoors, like checking the mail or walking to your car.
#MayoClinicMinute: #Mindfulness is a buzzword these days. But what does it really mean? Dr. Richa Sood says practicing mindfulness may help lower your stress level and make you happier. https://t.co/i0BRQXs5OD pic.twitter.com/WcXNjWeKr0
— Mayo Clinic (@MayoClinic) February 20, 2019
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/mindfulness-exercises/art-20046356
- https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/education/how-to-practice-mindfulness