Having you been hearing the word 'mindfulness' all over the place? Do you know what it means? Mindfulness is all about living in the moment. Think of it as taking the time to stop and smell the roses. It’s about cutting out the distractions and noise of life. Mindfulness involves choosing to focus on something in particular.
There are some big benefits to practicing mindfulness. Top among them is, of course, feeling less stressed. One of the reasons we feel stressed is because we are pulled in many different directions and are constantly bombarded by new information, media, and demands. Practicing mindfulness allows you to tune out the noise and give your mind a break. This in turn will help you relieve stress, and by making mindfulness part of your daily routine, you can start to permanently reduce stress and negate some of its negative side effects.
How to Practice Mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. You don’t have to get into any long mindfulness meditations unless you want to. You can start with some very easy and simple things. Let’s take mindful eating, for example. Instead of eating in front of the TV or looking at your phone while you munch on a slice of takeout pizza, try grabbing a plate and putting your food on it.
Arrange the slices of pizza and maybe add a small side salad. If you’re feeling fancy, grab a knife and fork. Sit down at the table and put your phone away. Focus on the food. What does it look like? What does it smell like? How does it taste? Savor each bite and pay attention to how your body is starting to react. Not only is it a great way to de-stress, but you’ll also find you’ll get a lot more out of each meal, and this type of eating tends to keep you from overindulging.
Mindful Breathing: A Quick and Effective Technique
Another great way to practice mindfulness is with a mindfulness meditation. Focus on your breathing and notice how the air feels as you breathe in and out. What does it feel like to have air move in and out through your nose? Does it feel cool on the way in and warm on the way out.
You can also pay attention to the rise and fall of your abdomen. Breathe deep into your belly then expand your lungs, opening them into your back and side body. If you are a person who has a hard time breathing, try lying down with your feet elevated and your arms on the floor in a cactus position. Place a book or other light object on your stomach so you can see it rise as you inhale and lower as you exhale.
Creating Mindful Rituals for Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness anytime, anywhere. The hardest part is remembering to do it. Create one or two small rituals for yourself that focus on mindfulness. Maybe it’s a simple meditation in the morning, or really paying attention to that first cup of coffee. How hot is it? How does it smell? How slowly can yo sip it?
Maybe it’s going for a stroll after dinner by yourself where you can practice being mindful of your surroundings and the beauty you encounter. Feel the ground beneath your feet with each step you take. Experiment with the pace at which you walk. Mindfulness can be super fun and relaxing!
Conclusion: Start Reaping the Benefits of Mindfulness Today
Give mindfulness a try and start to enjoy the many short and long-term benefits of incorporating it into your day. Whether it’s reducing stress, improving mental clarity, or enhancing overall well-being, incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can make a significant difference in your life by training your brain to focus on other things, thereby reducing stress.
