5 Mindfulness Tips
Picture your morning, you wake up and check your phone while running through the million and one things on your to do list. Now you’re up and about making your coffee while brushing your teeth, at the same time you’re choosing your outfit AND feeding the dog. Never quite aware of your actions but going through the motions instead. In a culture so obsessed with doing, we forget to just be.
Mastering a few tips in mindfulness, will bring you that much closer to being. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, cultivating awareness, and letting go of judgement. It's a powerful tool that can help you reduce stress, improve your mental well-being, and enhance your overall quality of life.
#1 BREATHE
The breath is a fundamental anchor in mindfulness practice. Take a few minutes each day to simply focus on your breath. Notice the sensation of the air entering and leaving your nostrils or the rise and fall of your chest and abdomen. Whenever your mind starts to wander, gently bring your attention back to your breath. Try this while making your coffee, or standing in line at the shops.
#2 NOTICING
Most actions we complete every day are habitual and robotic. Meals are eaten while watching TV or on our phones, so try to eat your next meal more mindfully. Pay attention to the flavours, textures, and smells of your meal. Chew slowly and savour each bite. While you’re walking somewhere, pay attention to each step, the feeling of your feet touching the ground, and the rhythm of your breath. Walking mindfully can turn a routine activity into a peaceful meditation.
#3 BEING
At any point in your day when you notice yourself rushing or feeling anxious, take a moment to sit and be. Feel your clothes sitting on your skin, feel your feet on the floor and your hairs on your head. Take time to engage with your surroundings. Listen to the sounds of nature or the city, and observe the colours and shapes around you. Engaging your senses brings you into the present moment.
#4 THINKING
Often our minds run all over the place with little control or acceptance of thoughts. Practice gratitude every morning, reflecting on what makes you thankful and joyful. It could be as simple as a warm cup of tea or a rainbow over the mountain. This practice can shift your perspective and help you appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
Mindfulness is about accepting things as they are without judgement. Be kind and compassionate toward yourself and others. When negative thoughts or judgements arise, acknowledge them without criticism and gently guide your focus back to the present moment.
#5 ADJUSTING
Mindfulness is a powerful practice that needs a lot of work. Some days you might not have the energy or patience to practise it. And that’s okay! Set reminders for yourself if needed, a sticky note on the mirror while you brush your teeth or on your phone. Take the time to step away from digital distractions and maybe create a routine so that you can adjust to this new way of living.
Remember that mindfulness is a skill that develops with practice, so be patient and gentle with yourself as you embark on this journey toward a more mindful life. Start small, and over time, you'll reap the many benefits of living in the present moment. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll be noticing the smells of the ground powder, seeing the steam as it rises off the hot water, feel the warmth of the cup against your palms and tasting the flavoursome deep richness of your morning coffee.