Mindfulness

15 March 2024

Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present. Being aware of where we are and what we are doing, not reacting with haste or becoming overwhelmed by what is going on around us. It is paying attention to the present moment with curiosity and without judgement.

We often associate meditation with sitting crossed legged on the floor or earth, in silence with no thoughts entering the mind and remaining still for hours.
Which then leads to the common response “I can’t do that. I can’t meditate. ”

Did you know you can also meditate and be in state of mindfulness when you go for a walk, when you surf, when you observe nature, when you eat, when you’re taking photographs, when you tune in to a sound or focus on what is happening around you.

In these moments, your thoughts are focused on what is happening in the here and now, not thinking about the past or the future. Releasing any regrets about the past and letting go of any expectations about the future. You are mindful of your actions, fully engaged and aware of what you are doing, of what you are sensing without any judgement.

You are in the present moment.

Mindfulness helps to reduce anxiety, depression and rumination about past events. It helps to respond to stress or conflicts in a more positive way and to feel less overwhelmed by external events.

But how can we practice mindfulness in a busy or rushed everyday life?

Here are a few tools you can try:

  • Set a daily routine: pick a time of the day where you are going to be aware of the sensations during an activity. This could be when you are brushing your teeth, eating a meal or doing the washing up.
  • Notice the little things: the scent of a flower, the sensation of the breeze on your skin, the shape of the clouds…
  • Observe your thoughts: try not to control or push them away but rather allow them to come and go without reacting, just noticing with a gentle curiosity.
  • Practice mindful meditation: paying attention to your breath or to parts of your body. Gently bringing your attention back every time your mind wanders. Even one to two minutes is beneficial and perhaps working to increase the time.