Mindfulness

Have you felt "scattered" or overwhelmed? Don't worry you aren't alone. We often feel that way when we take on too much and forget to slow down to just breath. When we take time to just breath we can start to focus, this is where mindfulness happens. Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

Here are some tips for practicing mindfulness:

1. Take a seat: Find a place to sit that feels calm and quiet to you.

2. Set a time limit: If you’re just beginning, it can help to choose a short time, such as 5 or 10 minutes.

3. Notice your body: You can sit wherever you want. Just make sure you are stable and in a position you can stay in for a while.

4. Feel your breath: Follow the sensation of your breath as it goes out and as it goes in.

5. Notice when your mind has wondered: When you get around to noticing this, simply return your attention to the breath.

6. Be kind to your wandering mind: Don’t judge yourself or obsess over the content of the thoughts you find yourself lost in. Just come back.

Remember, mindfulness is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. Don't get discouraged if you find it difficult at first. With time and persistence, you will improve your ability to be mindful.

Please download The PDF to keep these tips handy!