What is mindfulness?
What comes to your mind when you read this question?
Do you use mindfulness, or do you think it may be complicated?
First, I will tell you what mindfulness is not.
It is not the same as meditation, although it can be a part of meditation practice. It is not "clearing your mind." Mindfulness is not only something for monks or Buddhists, although they do use it. It does not need to take a lot of time, a few moments here and there is a great place to start.
You have all you need to practice mindfulness already within you. You do not need any special equipment, and it is available to us anytime we choose.
If you are not currently in practice, being mindful may take a little getting used to, especially in today's world when multi-tasking seems to be the preferred way of being. The fast-paced world we live in is one great reason the practice is more critical to our wellbeing now than ever before.
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present. In fundamental terms, it is paying attention. Mindfulness is a great tool to improve your focus, your relationships, health, and wellbeing.
Some examples:
The practice of mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
Practicing mindfulness while eating has been shown to improve digestion, feelings of satisfaction and reduce times of overeating.
Being fully present with our children has increased the parent-child bond, increases the child's self-esteem, and reduces feelings of overwhelm in the parent.
Some Key benefits of Mindfulness:
Mindfulness is a practice that is available to us any time of day or night, wherever we are.
It is the moments of bliss while holding a hot cup of tea and looking out at the sunrise, watching the colors as they first start to appear and change out of the night sky. It is noticing the sounds of birds chirping "good morning" and smelling the scent of the grass that is wet with dew, feeling the chair I am sitting on, and noticing the feel of the breeze on my cheek. This is one of my favorite times to practice.
Have you been using mindfulness in your own life? If not, are you willing to give it a try?
Maybe think of it as a thought experiment. It is called a practice for a reason; it will never be perfect. Some days it is easier to get into exercise, and some days it may feel like it is not working. The very fact that you are trying the practice means it is working. The practice is the point of it all.
What are some thoughts or observations you have on the topic? I'm interested to hear anything you'd like to share.