Contrary to the components of the word, the definition of mindfulness does not mean “the quality of having a full mind” - it actually means the opposite. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully engaged in the present moment, aware of your thoughts and emotions and free of judgements or distractions.
There are many physical, mental and emotional health benefits that mindfulness provides, most notably reducing stress, anxiety and depression. While this sounds like a miracle solution to many everyday problems, admittedly, it is pretty difficult to be mindful 24/7. Luckily, there are many ways to practice mindfulness.
Want to dive deeper into your mindfulness journey? Here are five simple tricks you can try:
1) Deep breathing
If sitting still and silent for long periods of time is challenging for you, meditation may not be the best fit. However, taking a few full, deep breaths can provide the same sensation as meditating. As you breathe, follow your in-breaths all the way in, then follow your out-breaths all the way out.
2) Screen-free meals
Sit down for a meal and just eat - without watching a video or scrolling through social media. Instead, examine your food and savor each aspect of it, noticing the colors, the textures, the smells and the tastes.
3) Go for a walk
Take a moment to enjoy the outdoors! Stepping out and admiring nature can help remind you of the many different life forms surrounding you that you may not notice every day.
4) Do a body scan
Bring awareness to every part of your body, moving from head to toe to figure out your body’s current needs. Stretch to release any tension you may be holding.
5) Journaling
Journal thoughts and emotions without labeling them as good or bad. Acknowledging a thought or emotion in the moment instead of suppressing it is one way to practice acceptance of the present.
Interested in learning other mindfulness strategies? Then check out one of our many Beach Balance services, including Wellness Workshops, Guided Meditations and more. Visit asirecreation.org for more info!
