How Can I Use Mindfulness Daily?

Hello again! Mindfulness is something I talk about with almost everyone. It is a key piece to being able to move forward in life, and also appreciating what we have in the present moment. Many people ask "But what is it?!"

Mindfulness is our ability to be fully present in any given moment, to be aware of what is happening right now, how we feel right now, without worrying about past or future things, and helps us to not feel overwhelmed or react in ways we will regret later. We are also able to appreciate what we have when we have it if we are being mindful.

"It is simply the act of paying attention to whatever you are experiencing, as you experience it." - Kate Hanley

It helps us to turn our rational part of our brain back on when we are having highly emotional times, and also allows us to connect with the feelings in healthy ways if we are running through life like a robot. 

Some people find it helpful to set aside time each day to meditate in order to help them become more mindful (when they wake up, bedtime, etc). Personally, I try and incorporate it into multiple points of my day. When I am with someone, or doing an activity, focusing on exactly what is happening in the moment and appreciating the present. Fully feeling the experience, rather than thinking about what I did an hour ago or what I need to do later today. 

A couple of things that are necessary for mindfulness are self-compassion and self-love. These allow us to experience our moments in loving ways, rather than in judgmental ways. 

If you notice that your mind goes to shaming thoughts, ask yourself "if my friend was saying the same thing, what advice would I give them?" and then remember to tell yourself the same advice. 

Taking deep breaths and slowing down your day and thoughts are also helpful ways to be more mindful. 

I hope you can try one of the things mentioned today, and that you notice a difference in how you feel.

Thanks for reading and being in connection with me,

Steph