Mindfulness has become a buzzword over the years, but what does it really mean? Mindfulness is focusing one’s awareness and attention on the present moment without judgment. It can involve acknowledging the environment around you as well as your thoughts and emotions in the current moment.
Using mindfulness techniques such as guided imagery, deep breathing, or practicing gratitude can help us to have:
- Lowered stress levels in the moment and over time.
- Lowered heart rate and blood pressure measurements.
- Less emotional reactivity.
- Better sleep.
- Better focus on current tasks and mental sharpness.
Mindfulness is something that everyone can do. Like other skills we learn over time, it takes practice for mindfulness to become an easy thing to do. Many of us are not used to slowing down and being present in the moment. Because of this, it takes time to develop mindfulness skills.
Here are a few tips to get your mindfulness practice started:
- A Quiet Space – If possible, find a quiet space to use while practicing. This can help calm your senses, especially if the environment was very loud or stimulating.
- Focus – Focus your attention on things like your deep breathing, tension in your body, and the environment around you. This focused attention can bring your thoughts to the current moment and help calm your body and mind.
- Past, Present, Future – Another mindfulness technique could include thinking about different times of stress in your life, how you may have handled a previous scenario, or how you plan to navigate a future stressful situation.
- Take a Walk – Taking a mindfulness walk is not only good for our mental health but also our physical health. Take note of what you see as you are exploring the outdoors.
- Positive Self-Talk – Speaking kindly about yourself can have a great impact on how you treat yourself and those around you. This also allows you to be non-judgmental of yourself in your practice.
To get started with mindfulness, check out this
5, 4, 3, 2, 1 mindfulness practice. This can help you tune into your five senses, become more present in the moment, and lower your stress levels to have a better, more productive day.
By, Coach Sarah