It’s a popular term these days, we hear more and more about mindfulness. Have you ever wondered, though, what it really is? Why it matters? Why is everyone talking about it? Why are schools and big corporations starting to implement mindfulness programs?
Simply stated, Mindfulness is being present. Really, totally present; in this moment, right here, right now, in this body.
When we are present, the amazing thing is that we can’t be also in the future, in anxiety, worry, fear or excitement, nor can we be in the past, in regret or stuck re-playing the same conversation over and over in our heads.
Being present brings our entire focus to the present moment, and we notice. The noticing and the paying attention is what keeps us focused.
This practice of mindfulness, over time, begins to allow us a pause and a space in which to respond to our circumstances. Perhaps we are unable to change or control the situation, but we can choose our response. And mindfulness is the tool that allows that.
Mindfulness is perhaps the single best strategy for dealing with stress in our lives; something with which most of us are all too familiar. We live in an enormously stressful world; and all of us, adults and children as well, are having to function in the face of stress.
Mindfulness has been shown to be beneficial for a number of physical and mental health issues, and it has also been shown to enhance productivity in the workplace.
We can practice mindfulness in a variety of ways; using the breath and meditation are two popular ways to practice mindfulness. But we can learn to incorporate mindfulness into many aspects of our daily lives; mindful walking, mindful cleaning, mindful eating are examples of bringing mindfulness practices into the already established routines and tasks in our lives.
How can you learn how to bring mindfulness into your life?
Here at Five Stones Healing Arts and Wellness Center, we have an ongoing series of offerings to teach mindfulness, please consider joining us for The Mindful Way. We would love to have you join us to learn more about this amazing and life altering tool!!