Mindfulness. What does that really mean? There are many different aspects of
mindfulness and many different perceptions of what it means. In our culture today we are constantly
stimulated and feel that “more is better.”
We are “crazy busy” even though we are surrounded with devices and
conveniences that were invented to “make our lives easier.” Mindfulness is about putting down all the
balls that we are juggling and embracing the beauty of monotasking.
There are health benefits associated with
mindfulness that include alleviating depression, anxiety, and pain. It can also decrease our flight or fight
response and increase our ability to pay attention. Many of us feel that being busy helps us to
feel productive but research shows that if we are in a relaxed alert state we
actually perform better. We are also
more productive.
So how do we integrate moments of
stillness, mindfulness, or meditation in our lives? It takes practice and
commitment. Start small by taking a
minute in the morning to wake up, take in the smell, and the scenery. Take time to land in your day and notice all
the things that are stimulating your senses.
Go through each of your 5 senses and identify what you see, taste, hear,
smell, and touch. Life is beautiful so
take time and literally smell the roses.
April Moedl LCSW
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