Mindfulness

Studies show that mindfulness meditation can reduce stress, and improve health by helping people cope with illness and pain. The goal is to learn to be aware of emotions, thoughts, and how our bodies feel. Training our minds to focus only on the present, allows us break from past regrets and future worries. Mindfulness teaches us to be in control of our thoughts, so that our thoughts do not control us.

• Go outside and take a few deep breaths. Without judgment, notice what the air feels like. Focus on the colors of trees and plants; notice the color of the sky and clouds.
• Eat a meal without doing anything else. Focus on the smells and the tastes of each bit.  Chew slowly.
• Once or twice a day, sit alone for a few minutes and focus on your breathing. Notice the in and out of your breath happening on its own.  Notice how your body feels.
• If you struggle with anxiety or worrisome thoughts, imagine those thoughts as clouds in the sky.  Notice those thoughts without judging them, and let them float past you.
• Find a guided meditation video online
• access free online mindfulness training

It is normal for the mind to wander when a person begins to practice mindfulness. Keep trying. This is why mindfulness is called a practice—it takes practice to not judge your feelings and thoughts. It takes practice to stay in the present moment.