Mindfulness is the practice of becoming aware and attentive to our thoughts, feelings, and actions in every moment of every day. It is a practice that cultivates focus, recognition, realization, and consciousness.
Most of us live in a state of autopilot, going about our lives each day with all the baggage we’ve accumulated throughout our lifetime(s). We run on standard operating procedures that have been programmed by our life experiences, information handed down, our DNA, genetics, and karmic residue. And sometimes we need that, but more often than not it causes suffering, discomfort, imbalance, and disease.
The practice of mindfulness is a way of reprogramming conditioned responses, thought loops, patterns and emotional/spiritual energy. It helps us develop resilience, stability, and joyful ease in life. Here are 3 easy ways to begin practicing mindfulness.
- Select specific times during a day, i.e.: (1) waking, (2) 9:00 am, (3) 12:00 pm, (4) 3:00 pm and (5) before bed. Set a reminder on our phone so it will signal you to check in. Then stop whatever you are doing. Pause, take a breath and notice how you’re feeling in that moment. Ask yourself how do I feel physically, mentally and emotionally right now.
- Next, develop a sense of curiosity and ask yourself: Why do I feel this way?
- Then ask yourself: How do I want to feel in this moment? And what actions can I take right now to bring about ease, peace and balance?”
Mystic Magazine, Living Mindfully: Insights from Leading Meditation and Mindfulness Experts, August 15, 2024
