Mindfulness 101

How often are you mindful of yourself and your surroundings?

Have you ever arrived at a destination and can’t seem to remember just how you got there? We are so busy rushing around living our lives that we often forget to be mindful. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety you may face in your day to day life. Simple breathing techniques can help ‘quiet the mind’ allowing you to experience inner peace. Mindfulness can help improve your focus, sleep patterns and your overall quality of life! Sounds magic right?

Try it for yourself. Find somewhere comfortable to sit, it can be a chair, on the floor - anywhere you are comfortable. Ideally not a bed though! Otherwise you might just fall asleep! Now close your eyes. Take five deep breathes. Take your time. Notice how you are sitting. Do you notice any aches or pains in your body? Are you carrying any stress or anxiety in your body? Do you feel tense? Just notice these feelings. Take 10 more deep breaths. Imagine there is a yellow balloon in your stomach. Imagine the balloon is expanding every time you take a deep breath. If you hear any noises or distractions that’s ok. Just notice them and then return to focusing on your breathing. In your own time and when you are ready open your eyes.

There is no ‘goal’ with mindfulness. You are noticing and becoming more aware of yourself and your surroundings. You could introduce these simple breathing techniques in your daily routine. Try it for a week and see if it makes a difference for you.