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What is mindfulness?
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is our ability to be present and aware of what is happening right now. It is being aware of our thoughts, feelings, sensations, and environment without getting wrapped up in our to-do lists, worries about tomorrow, past mistakes, or other distracting thoughts.
(Image: Retrieved from 2020 InspireHealth)
Benefits of mindfulness
Benefits of mindfulness
Increases well-being - decreases anxiety & depression
Helps us gain control over our thoughts and respond well to stressful or emotional situations
Increases focus and concentration
Calms our minds and bodies
Reduces stress
How do we become "mindful"?
How do we become "mindful"?
Practice! Learning to be more mindful requires regular practice. It is often difficult in the beginning, but becomes easier over time. Start with as little as 2 minutes per day and don't be hard on yourself if it feels difficult!
Mindfulness meditations. Guided practices can be found on YouTube and various apps to help us focus on our breathing to train our brains to be more mindful.
Mindful eating. Focus on the sight, smell, and taste of food while we are eating it rather than simply consuming it thoughtlessly.
Mindful walking/driving. Rather than letting our minds wander while we walk or drive, we can focus on our surroundings and the sights, sounds and smells around us.
Resources
Resources
Websites:
Mindful: healthy mind, healthy life - Lots of articles, guided meditations, resources and ideas for mindfulness
Apps:
Headspace - Good introduction to mindfulness meditations
Insight Timer - Tons of guided meditations created by many different people
Calm - Fewer free options but lovely nature scenes and timed meditations
YouTube Channels:
Even simple tasks can be done mindfully. Tired of washing your hands?
Turn it into a mindful moment!
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