The Art of Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness, and why should I care?

Mindfulness is a way to focus on your inner and outer self. To become aware of yourself in the moment by accepting your feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations. It’s a way to slow down and exist in the moment and to pay attention to yourself.

Mindfulness is a great way to relax for anyone with a busy schedule, whether it’s work, deadlines or family related. It’s not just trauma survivors who need this. Anyone can benefit from mindfulness. The best thing is, it’s free! You can do it anywhere. (Well almost).

Practicing mindfulness can be done through breathing exercises, meditation and guided imagery. Anything that can get you to switch off for a few minutes and be YOU. Nothing else, just you. It’s a way of paying attention to everything that is you.

Take a beat and find a quiet space away from your computer and people. Choose to either sit or lie down but make sure you are comfortable.

Start by closing your eyes and calm your mind. Try and focus on your breathing instead of that deadline next week or whatever is on your mind. Notice your face relaxing as you breathe. Try and relax your neck and shoulders if you can.

Ask yourself gentle questions such as:

Think about this moment, right here, right now:

How are you feeling today?

Think about yourself without judgement:

Do you have any aches, and pains in your body that bothers you?

Accept your feelings as they are. Don’t try and problem solve anything. Just stay in the moment.

Consider your physical sensations in this moment:

What can you feel, hear, touch, smell, taste?

Pay attention to your breathing as you go through this exercise.

If you have time, go through your body and feel every limb and extremity in turn by tensing then relaxing that body part. Once you have tensed and relaxed each part of your body, allow a few minutes of peace.

Relax and breathe. Notice your chest rising and falling.

Don't rush to get up. Open your eyes and get your bearings first. Then slowly rise and stretch.

How do you feel? Did you clear your mind for a few minutes?

If you take a few minutes to do this every day. I can guarantee that your focus returns and you feel less affected by brain fog.

Give it a shot.

Benefits of Using Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness regularly can help you reduce stress and anxiety. It can improve your mental health and well-being.

Mindfulness can enhance your ability to focus your attention on the present moment.

By practicing mindfulness you learn to understand and manage your emotions better because you listen to your body.

Mindfulness can help you sleep better because it promotes relaxation and calming of your mind.

Mindfulness can encourage and strengthen your understanding of your own thoughts, feelings and behavior. You recognize how you feel much quicker if you practice mindfulness.

My name is Lizzy, and I’m a mom, teacher, author and mental health blogger. I write for those who don’t always feel that they have a voice. For more about me, my books and articles check out my website: www.elizabethwoodsauthor.com

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