What is mindfulness? Below are some definitions:
The awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment to moment (Kabat-Zinn, 2003).
The non-judgmental observation of the ongoing stream of internal and external stimuli as they arise (Baer, 2003).
Keeping one’s complete attention to the experience on a moment to moment basis (Martlett & Kristeller, 1999).
To put it simply, mindfulness is being the observer of your life in each moment. Being still and listening with your heart instead of your mind. I think it is a heart-centered practice.
Mindfulness practice allows you to be able to identify and eliminate old beliefs, feelings, emotions and blocks. You start to become aware that you are the creator of your life and you stop being pushed around by all of the mindless chatter in your head. You begin to empower yourself!
It gives you a space in the present moment to deal with painful memories, old beliefs or fears about the future in a safe and secure place, knowing you are in the present moment. That is difficult for most of us, because we spend our time in the past or future, very rarely do we live in the present moment.
We are usually living mindless lives. Let me give you some examples:
Driving to and from work without even remembering the drive
Cleaning your house while you worry about what you are making for dinner
Eating your food while you read the paper or watch TV
Doing several things at once rather than focusing on one task
Daydreaming while someone is talking to you
Getting caught up in your emotions
Playing with your kids while your texting on your phone
Walking your dog and thinking about what you need to do the next day
If you can relate to any of the above, don’t panic……..mindless living has become the “norm” for the majority of us 🙁
The good news is that you can begin to exchange your “mindless life” for a “mindful life” by implementing mindfulness techniques that are easy to learn and require only 15-20 minutes of practice a day. Scientific research over the past 10-15 years has demonstrated that mindfulness activates and even grows areas of the brain associated with focus and concentration, personal and contextual awareness, cognitive performance, emotional intelligence, insight and creativity, happiness and contentment, and the ability to break old habits and form new ones. At the same time, it shrinks brain centers associated with anxiety and stress while boosting the immune system and enhancing overall wellbeing.
WOW! How can you argue with that! I will be sharing many simple, grab-and-go mindfulness techniques on my website that will allow you to decide what works best for you. We are all unique and I want you to choose what techniques will empower you and give you a sense of inner peace so you can create a mindful life!