Modern living is all about the hustle and bustle. And with this constant pressure to be productive and on the go, we often forget to live in the moment. Practicing mindfulness is a great way to recenter our thoughts from our list of to-dos into the present moment.
By bringing our thoughts to the present we are able to focus on the good of every moment, instead of worrying about the future or the past. This practice is almost essential to maintain a positive outlook and taking care of our mental health.
There are many ways to practice mindfulness for a more peaceful life. Keep reading to learn the top 7 best ways to be mindful.
Stop And Breathe
Being mindful is all about paying attention to the present moment and one of the easiest ways to do this is by taking a few moments to stop and breathe. When you breathe your body is following its own natural rhythm.
By tuning into your inhales and exhales, you are drawing your attention to what is happening right here right now. If you are someone who struggles with anxiety, this momentary focus on the breath can help you quiet your mind and start to drown out worrisome thoughts.
Your breath can remind you of how powerful your body is and how it is supporting you in every moment.
Mindful Eating
You've heard the age-old adage before "you are what you eat". This not only applies to the actual food you are eating but also how you are eating it. Because of the go-go-go world we live in, daily eating often seems more like a chore than an enjoyed experience.
Instead of sitting down and slowly eating our meals, we instead scarf them down in the car, as we are running out of the door, or while we are distracted doing other things. By eating in this fashion we are causing our bodies and minds extra stress and likely to not feel satisfied.
Try practicing mindful eating by giving yourself time to thoroughly take in your food. Slow down and notice how it smells and how each bite tastes. Try to make eating a singular activity and focus fully on the experience.
Mindful Movement
Exercise and movement are well known to be beneficial to mental health. It's important to find a type of movement that your body enjoys, whether that be yoga, running, or even taking an evening stroll.
Tune into how your body feels with each movement. How it feels when your feet hit the ground on you sink deeper into a pose. Notice how your breath changes with different physical activity.
And listen to the variations in your heartbeat. Not only will the movement alone help alleviate anxiety and tension but it can also help bring you into the present moment. Be thankful for how hard your body is able to work.
Setting aside time to move is a gift you can give yourself daily, even if you only can afford 10 minutes.
Focus On Your Senses
A well-known trick to being mindful and bringing yourself back into the moment is focusing your attention on your five senses. Much like focusing on your breathing, this can take you out of your worried state of mind and bring your full attention to the present moment.
By focusing on your sense of smell, touch, sound, sight, and taste you are becoming fully aware of your surroundings and thus connecting to the present. If you are spending your time inside of your own head, you are missing out on what's happening around you.
You can practice mindfulness by tuning into your senses anywhere you are. Begin tuning into each sense individually to truly bring yourself into the moment.
Meditation
Meditation is one of the most well-known ways to practice mindfulness and reap the full benefits of experiencing the present. This practice is designed to bring your attention to the mind and body connection so that you may feel peace.
Meditation can increase your feelings of happiness, your energy levels, and even your sense of inspiration. Don't be overwhelmed by beginning your meditation journey.
Even taking 10-15 minutes a day to spend in a meditative state can bring you the mindful benefits.
Slow Down And Listen
Because of the high-stress environment many of us live in every day, we often don't fully give our attention to anything or anyone. Especially when speaking to others, we tend to jump to assumptions or conclusions on what they are trying to say.
Next time you are speaking to someone, try to give them your full attention. Listen completely to what they are saying to you and take note of their tone and body language.
Not only will this help you stay in the present moment, but it will also make for more meaningful conversation.
Pay Attention To Your Feelings
We can often feel like our thoughts define us. And although our thoughts are a part of what we experience, our thoughts don't have to be who we are. Instead of attaching your ego and sense of self to each and every thought, try to become an outside observer to them.
Pay attention to how they make you feel and chose to only identify with the ones that bring about positive emotions. Think of your thoughts as clouds passing overhead and allow them to roll over you instead of being bogged down in any one scenario or way of thinking.
The Many Ways To Practice Mindfulness
There are many ways to practice mindfulness in your day to day life. Try these methods out for yourself and begin to see the benefits of truly living in the moment.
Allow yourself to exist in the here and now instead of worrying about the future or past. And if you wish to further your mental care, contact our office.