We often hear about the benefits of mindfulness and how it can improve our mental and physical well-being. But what does it really mean to be mindful, and do we need to make drastic changes to our lifestyle in order to reap the rewards?
What Mindfulness Really Means
At its core, mindfulness is about being present in the moment and paying attention to our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. It sounds simple enough, but in world that never seems to stop, it can be difficult to quiet our minds and just be. That’s why mindfulness is often thought of as a practice or exercise that we have to work at every day.
One of the best things about mindfulness is that it can be done anywhere, at any time. You don’t need expensive equipment or a secluded location; all you need is yourself. There are many different mindfulness exercises you can try, but a good place to start is with basic breathing meditation. Simply find a comfortable place to sit or lie down, close your eyes, and focus on your breath as you inhale and exhale slowly. You may also want to try adding a mantra or affirmation such as “I am calm” or “I am present.”
Making Mindfulness a Lifestyle
So, do we need to make drastic changes to our lifestyle in order to be more mindful? The answer is no—mindfulness is all about being present in the moment, and that moment could be anything from doing the dishes to taking a walk outside. However, if you find that your mind is constantly racing and you struggle to quiet your thoughts, it may help to incorporate some basic mindfulness practices into your daily routine.
Here are a few suggestions for making mindfulness part of your life:
· Set aside some time each day for a dedicated mindfulness practice such as meditation or yoga. Even just 5-10 minutes can make a big difference.
· Make a conscious effort to pay attention to your surroundings throughout the day. Notice the sounds you hear, the textures you feel, the smells you smell—really savor them!
· Try not to multitask. When you’re eating breakfast, eat breakfast; when you’re talking on the phone, talk on the phone; when you’re working on a project, work on that project—don’t try to do multiple things at once. This can be challenging in our busy lives, but it’s worth it to slow down and really be present in whatever we’re doing.
Mindfulness doesn't require us to make drastic changes overnight—it's simply about being more present in our everyday lives. By incorporating some basic mindfulness practices into our routine, we can reap the many benefits of this ancient technique.
