Being in the moment…
Our nervous systems can be easily overloaded and even breached. Life’s daily grind can easily put us on autopilot where we behave mindlessly with minds full, overwhelmed, and distracted. Examples of being mindful can also be found. If you notice a shirt itching your neck or linger to smell a rose, you are in the moment.
- Mindfulness practice is paying attention and being aware. It is available to us in every moment. A person notices thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings without passing judgments on what is experienced.
- Contrary to popular belief, there are no right or wrong ways to practice mindfulness. You need to find what works for you. Breath practices, guided meditation, and/or body scans are often helpful.
- One kind of mindfulness practice is Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). In 1972, Jon Kabat-Zinn created an 8-week class to help people work better with life stresses and practice mindfulness daily.
- Numerous scientific studies demonstrate that mindfulness practices are effective in reducing anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, and other medical problems.
Almost everything will work again if you unplug
it for a few minutes… including you.
-Anne Lamott
Daily Practice Opportunities
Before you send your next text or email, pause, slow down, and notice your breath for two or three cycles. Pay attention to fully and gently filling your belly with air. Pause and then breathe out as the belly button moves gently back toward the backbone.
Or, before you arise or sleep, pause and pay attention to slowly breathing in and out.
If your mind wanders, it’s normal. Gently return to each breath with no judgment again and again. Be patient and allow yourself to be in the moment. Throughout the day, look for other opportunities for your mindfulness practice.
Goal: Mindfulness practices become part of your daily routine. For example, a 5 minute practice– three times a day– may be more beneficial than one single 15 minute practice.
Happiness is this moment without judgement.
-Tara Brach
In summary, mindfulness practices are not just a fad or something new age. They have been shown to significantly improve health. I invite anyone seeking well-being and enhanced mind/body health to explore, learn, and practice daily mindfulness.
Which are you?
Do your daily routines support clutter or clarity?
