Mindfulness is a training of our mind to be fully engaged with whatever we do and not forgetting it. It can be applied to any activity we participate in through daily life. When we practice mindfulness we are in control of our concentration and are able to block any distractions that interfere with the present. It is used to assist us in becoming more focused and more aware of our present surroundings and thoughts in our mind that may be causing us discomfort, pain or distraction.
When we use mindfulness correctly we are focusing on the present moment. We don’t become caught in the past or future and this enables us to slow our thoughts, relax mentally and physically, be more aware of ourselves and our environment, engage with other people, and to find a sense of wellbeing because we are able to understand and manage what is occurring at the present time. We are experiencing life as it happens. Tips to being mindfulness training include:
- Try to spend at least five minutes each day initially to practice mindfulness by sitting quietly and becoming aware of your thoughts and your body.
- You may realise how busy your mind is with thoughts and how difficult it is to slow them down.
- Use a breathing exercise to focus and concentrate and to still your mind. Breathing in and out through your nostrils. Return to the breath each time your mind is distracted by thoughts, sounds, worries.
- Increase your practice to 10 minutes, and so on as you find you are able to concentrate for longer periods.
- Use mindfulness in every activity. Keep your mind focused on what you are doing and nothing else, whether cooking, washing dishes, washing the car, walking or driving. When you notice your mind drifting elsewhere bring it back to the activity at hand.
- Set goals for yourself and be patient. Don’t become discouraged or angry with yourself if you find that it is taking longer than you expected, or if some days it is more difficult to concentrate than others.
- Notice the difference in your thinking, your actions and your responses as your practice progresses and you are more familiar with your own thoughts.
- Don’t be afraid to discover who you truly are and learn to appreciate and accept yourself. There is always room for change but be patient and kind to yourself as you continue this path of mindfulness.