MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is defined as the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. This definition, among all others, resonates with me because it highlights that mindfulness is an inherent ability we all possess. All we need to do is access it.

The inspiration for this article came from my conversations about meditation and mindfulness practices. A common response I hear is, “I don’t think I can do it. My mind is like a monkey. I can never sit still to practice.” I want to share the simplicity of mindfulness practices and inspire confidence in anyone willing to try.

It is hard to argue on the challenge of sitting still. But then how about moving around? Yes! You can move around and still be mindful. That is how I started my journey. Lets explore together some avenues on how can this be achieved: Mindfulness, to-go please!

Intentionally Organize Your Living Space Your awareness will be occupied on setting things in order. Consider this, right now, as you continue to concentrate and read this post, you might have forgotten about the pain in your back, the disagreement you had with your boss earlier today, and even that you are hungry. ?

Take a Walk Without Electronics The only caveat is ‘no electronics’. You will immediately notice, that flood gates will open and you will be inundated with thoughts about the past or the future, or about what your co-worker said earlier that hurt your feelings, or you will start planning about the next event, and so on. Let it! Just be aware of them. The second you accept that it is the job of the mind to think and it is doing its job well, you will notice a sense of calmness emerge in you from nowhere.

Take a Deep Breath and Set Intention Before Starting Any Task For example, ‘I wish to understand the concept of mindfulness better and hence I would like to read this post’.

Start simple, and over time, you will be amazed at your progress and the improvements in your practice.

For those eager to dive deeper, here are some recommended readings:

Think Smart! Work Hard!

Sources and Suggested Reading:

1. What is Mindfulness?
2. Dispenza, Joe. You Are the Placebo: Making Your Mind Matter. Carlsbad, California: Hay House, Inc, 2015.