The Mindfulness Practices That Changed My Life

Today, I want to share with you the mindfulness practices that changed my life, improved my mental health, transformed my physical body, and helped me find inner peace. But first, what is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment, aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly Buddhism. Over the years, mindfulness has been embraced globally for its benefits in reducing stress, enhancing emotional well-being, and improving overall health.

Here are the mindfulness practices that have profoundly impacted my life:

Yoga

When I first came across a yoga class, it was a restorative one. The candles were dimmed, and the room was filled with bolsters, blankets, and blocks. I had no idea what I was getting into. We tend to see on TV these classes where students are talking to each other, laughing, and gossiping (cough cough, Carrie Bradshaw). But to my surprise, this was different. The class focused on 5-10 postures, holding each for about five minutes, with the point being to just let go. That was my first experience with yoga.

Years later, I took my first real vinyasa flow class. It was in the middle of the jungle in Tulum, and I remember ending the class hating what the "chaturanga" flow was. I was drained but fulfilled at the same time. Fast forward five years to today, I practice yoga every day, and the things I used to hate are now the things that recharge me the most. Yoga is a mindfulness practice because it requires you to focus on your breath, align your movements with your breath, and be present in your body.

Meditation

When I first started meditating, I remember my cousin introducing me to the practice. She explained, "Just close your eyes and forget about everything." I didn't really understand what it was, but I felt a connection when I disconnected from time. Years later, my first introduction to meditation was with a holistic psychologist who guided me through the steps of calming anxiety with meditation. In a nutshell, meditating helps you disconnect and be present. Our minds tend to linger in the past or rush to the future, causing us stress and anxiety. The gift of meditation is the present moment, a safe space where you just feel and disconnect to connect.

Fasting

Lastly, one of the practices that has helped me the most has been fasting. I think fasting is one of the most spiritual experiences you can have. It is a meditation and a need to listen to yourself and your body. Fasting not only teaches you to listen to your body, but it also allows it to rest. By giving your digestive system a break, you promote cellular repair and improve metabolic health.

These three practices are the pillars of my life, the habits that keep me at peace. They not only ground me but also force me to stay present and live slowly. Through yoga, meditation, and fasting, I have found a way to navigate life more much grounded.