Mindfulness is being aware, being in the moment, it is the practice of being still, appreciating the moment that is and the you that you are. We often get too busy in our lives to appreciate the lttle things, losing sight of the present and not hearing what our bodies, souls, or minds are telling us.
It is a matter of fact that, as humans, we all get caught up in negative thought cycles and must deal with stress on a daily basis. Learning to look at ourselves and the world around us in a non-judgemental way can have a very positive impact on our lives. Mindfulness can help us respond to life’s issues in a calm manner that contributes to our mental and physical well-being.
It helps us recognise and distance ourselves from habitual emotional and physiological reactions to events and is scientifically proven to increase clarity and understanding. Being mindful is the art of being fully present in our lives and living in a state of gratitude and peace that contributes to happiness and health.
“Mindfulness is the aware, balanced acceptance of the present experience. It isn’t more complicated that that. It is opening to or receiving the present moment, pleasant or unpleasant, just as it is, without either clinging to it or rejecting it.” — Sylvia Boorstein
When we are mindful we become more aware of what we are thinking and doing and what is going on in body and mind. Being one with your experiences and being aware of your own emotional triggers and automatic responses is key to increasing your vision and making wiser choices. There are thousands of publications that document the effectiveness of mindfulness in improving mental and physical health.
10 Key Benefits of Being Mindful
- Recognise and eliminate or reduce habitual negative or self-defeating reactions
- Feel calmer
- Be more objective
- Achieve life balance
- Decreased depression
- Stronger relationships
- Better physical health
- Increased creativity
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Be happier
“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non judgmentally.” – Jon Kabot Zin
Through meditation practices, mindful movements, and conscious awareness, mindfulness helps reduce negative thought and behaviour patterns. The more we practice, the more neuro-pathways we develop in the brain that enhance our lives in myriad ways. Mindfulness does not take that much work either. It can be learned in a short period of time and when applied, makes a world of difference.
A Few Videos to Learn More About Mindfulness
