Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.

While mindfulness is something we all naturally possess, it’s more readily available to us when we practice on a daily basis.

Whenever you bring awareness to what you’re directly experiencing via your senses, or to your state of mind via your thoughts and emotions, you’re being mindful. And there’s growing research showing that when you train your brain to be mindful, you’re actually remodeling the physical structure of your brain.

https://www.mindful.org

1. Find a safe , calm, and quiet space and be seated or lie in a comfortable position. You may dim the lights.

2. Set a time limit - we typically practice for 5 minutes at SMS. Feel free to practice as long as you feel necessary.

3. Begin playing the relaxing music.

4. Notice the way your body feels - relaxed? tense?

5. Focus on your breath. Remembering to inhale and exhale slowly.

6. When completed with your mindfulness exercise, allow your mind and body to wake up slowly.

7. How do you feel? More relaxed? Less stressed? More in control of your thoughts/feelings?

*It is okay if your mind wanders off during mindfulness. Simply bring your focus back to your body, breath, and the music.