Where to start with mindfulness?

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the practice of using our senses to stay focused on the present.  With the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is more common than not to focus our attention on the past or the future but rarely in the moment of the present.  This can lead to many unhealthy habits as well as anxiety and depression. The ability to be present is life-giving and can help you not feel overwhelmed and bring about happiness. Mindfulness is rooted in many different religious practices and is not a new practice.  

Where to start with mindfulness?

So, you have heard what Mindfulness is, and you want to get started; it is easier than you think! Mindfulness is something that every one of us already has access to, but we just need to bring it to our awareness to incorporate it into our daily lives.  Starting your day is a great place to start to incorporate some mindfulness practice. Many people love to start their day with coffee or a hot shower; the good news is that you can practice mindfulness in both.  Drinking your coffee, you could start to be aware of the smell of the coffee, how it tastes in your mouth, the warmth when you take your first sip, the sound of the coffee pot, the touch of the mug in your hands.  By thinking those thoughts, you incorporate all your senses and not think of the day ahead but just being present with your coffee.  The same thing in the shower, incorporate your five senses instead of thinking of what all you must do today.  Give yourself a few minutes to be in the here and now. It is that simple to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life. 

Benefits of mindfulness

There are great benefits of mindfulness for both your physical and mental health.  It helps with sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and many other mental health needs.  Physically it reduces your stress which can help with heart disease and lower blood pressure, and even help with chronic pain.  There are many benefits, and it is so easy to do!