Mindfulness is all the rage at the moment, but what does it actually mean?
Mindfulness is about being present in the moment. Not thinking of the past, not worrying about the future, but being present in the here and now.
If you’re one of those people who struggles to be mindful, we’ve put together some useful tips to help you stay focussed. Ready? Let’s tune in.
Use your senses
Often, we do daily tasks on autopilot. However, by using your senses to really experience every moment, you can bring awareness to whatever tasks you’re completing.
For example, if you’re taking a shower, think about the sensation of the warm water on your skin. Listen to the noise of the water coming out of the showerhead. Watch the steam rise around you.
If you’re taking a walk, focus on the sounds in the near and far distance. Consider the smells you encounter. Look around and take in the colours of the setting.
By being more aware of what’s happening around us, you’ll find yourself becoming more mindful and present in the moment.
Choose the right time of day
There’s no point trying to be mindful when you’re feeling tired – you’ll probably end up falling asleep! Rather, choose a time of day when you are feeling sharp.
For many people, first thing in the morning is the perfect time to meditate. Making it a daily habit before breakfast, for example, can help you progress your practice and improve.
Whether you decided to do it first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon, set aside time for mindfulness practice and stick to it!
Don’t be discouraged
If you find your mind wandering and you end up thinking about chores or the dinner menu, you’re not alone! Many people struggle to “turn off their brains”. To just be.
If you find your thoughts have shifted, simply recognise that you need to refocus, and bring your mind back to the present moment. Start by trying to be mindful for a few minutes each day, then build your practice gradually.
Use an app
Nowadays, there are loads of useful apps that can help you unwind and be mindful. These apps can teach you about everything from the importance of slowing your breath, to gratitude practice and how to better cope with stress and issues like anxiety.
Examples of popular apps include Calm, 1 Giant Mind and Buddhify. In 2020, we’ll be launching the Moving Mindz mindfulness app, so be sure to check it out.
Incorporating mindfulness into your life can have powerful ramifications. It can help you lead a more enriching, fulfilled life – one in which you soak the marrow out of every moment.
At Moving Mindz, we run a variety of programs designed to help participants make positive improvements in their life via our 365 Program. Get active, enhance sleep quality, eat better, be more mindful and learn about the benefits of practising gratitude.
If you’d like to know more, please get in touch!