Have you considered mindfulness? When I studied massage back in the 90’s it was common practice to learn about meditation. Alongside mindfulness, harmony and the balance of life. Yin and Yang.
I studied Yoga, Tai Chi and many Eastern philosophy ideas. Always with the consideration of ebb and flow of life. Massage lends itself so well to the ebb and flow of the hands. And massage does give both the giver and the receiver a powerful boost of mindfulness.
Over the years I’ve continued to remain grounded and let the moments matter. With the pace of life moving so fast and a busy practice, it can be easy to forget my own stress. I have to practice what I preach.
As always happen the more you think about something the more you notice it. We all need reminder to take more notice and practice meditation and mindfulness. So that we can be “ in” the moment a little more, to be grateful for what we have and to live a happier life.
Isn’t everyone looking for happiness?
Would incorporating mindfulness into your day be beneficial to you?
Do you ever find yourself coasting through your day? When you look back you can’t recall but a small part of the details?
Do you notice yourself becoming stressed out or worrying about what is to come? Even if it is possibility and not a certainty.
Do you feel angry or resentful about those things over which you have no control?
Mindfulness may be the answer.
If you are like most, you may have answered yes to at least one of these questions.
Have you wondered if there is another way to live your life?
Are you wondering what is Mindfulness?
When you take the time to pay attention to and savour the experiences that are happening around you. When you tune into your thoughts and feelings then you are being mindful.
Where should you begin?
Try incorporating the following mindfulness practices into your day
Meditate
Take at least a few minutes each day to meditate. You do not need to spend the time following a script or any specific guidelines whatsoever. It is important to try different methods until you find a process that works for you.
Headspace is a very popular app.
Being aware of the thoughts that come up and your emotional reaction to them, and the feelings in your body.
A guided meditation will stop your mind wandering. Learn to discard your to-do list or dinner plans, and focus on what is being said and your breath.
You may have to do repeat this. Until you are able to go more than even five breaths without your brain taking a walk.
If this happens, let it go, do not ridicule yourself. Observe the ideas, emotions, and physical sensations that arise. They may have been been blocked by your mental clutter. You might feel surprised at the results.
Search your phone apps and you will find some wonderful mediation podcasts.
Youtube is full of relaxing music, mediational videos.
The journey of a 1,000 miles begins with a single step.
You don’t need to be religious or spiritual to learn to practise mindfulness. Everyone can enjoy the benefits.
Try this..
Engage in conversation
When you are talking to a friend, do you play mental ping-pong. Feeling judgmental or considering that to-do list ?
Listening. A skill that opens your heart and helps you form genuine connections with others. It takes practice, commitment, and patience with yourself.
Guide your mind back to a place of compassion, kindness, and empathy. Instead of thinking about what you will say. Hold a space for someone and see how they blossom.
Switch from multi-tasking to single-tasking.
It isn’t always possible to be mindful in every moment. Even a few 20-minute sessions per day will help. I use the Tomato timer to help me focus. Especially when I’m writing blogs.
When you eat breakfast, instead of reading the paper or checking your email. Slow down and focus on and savour your food.
Whilst walking tune into the sights and sounds around you and the emotions that they elicit.
In our busy culture, being mindful is not second nature and takes a great deal of practice. Setting the intention is the start. A small shift can impact your thought processes. And reduce your level of stress. This will open you up to greater feelings of peace, gratitude, and acceptance.
Mindfulness is a proven method to gaining the positive effect. Both physical and emotional health improve.
I have attended a Mindfulness Silent Medication retreat. Only for one day – it was the most amazing experience ever – we all left feeling so calm. Try it.
Contact me to discuss what I’m offering and let me help you with guided meditation
(My Next idea)
