October 8, 2020
Mindfulness is the state of being present in the moment and conscious of your thoughts and actions at the very moment that they’re happening. It’s giving a moment your undivided attention without your mind wandering to something in the past or future. It is the conscious state of being in the here and now.
Some activities that I had touched on over the last couple of days in the Autumnal Equinox Series are some obvious ways to practice mindfulness (meditation and mindfulness go hand in hand), but this is something we can practice with just about anything we’re doing at any time, and we have endless opportunities to practice!
Many activities could be considered meditative like drawing, painting, creating jewelry, coloring, walking, jogging, and even assembling a jigsaw puzzle if you’re able to be mindful and present while doing them. Having a conversation with a friend, child or even a stranger provides an excellent opportunity to practice mindfulness. Listen to what they’re saying and receive every word they are speaking without letting your mind wander to how you are going to respond, what you need to do next, or other interruptive thoughts.
Being mindful is also giving yourself the opportunity to pay attention to your own thoughts. Allow yourself the freedom to let your mind wander. See if you can identify your most dominant thought. How does it make you feel? Is it negative or positive? If it’s negative, give yourself compassion for it, and then let it go. If you find yourself replaying your To Do list in your head, then write it down to get it out of your head and onto paper. It’s so satisfying to physically check them off as you accomplish each one!
Whatever you’re doing today, practice being mindful and in the moment. Even if it’s just eating a meal or taking a shower. Each time we practice mindfulness, it’s an opportunity to heal, reduce stress, and is a worthwhile accomplishment because you’re getting everything you can out of a moment before it’s gone.
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