Life if beautiful

 

I used to be put off by the word “mindfulness” and it’s rise in popularity in recent years. I suppose I don’t really like things that are the latest fad. When I explored mindfulness a little further I recognised that actually many of us practice mindfulness subconsciously and naturally.

But what is mindfulness?

I like this simple description about mindfulness from Christopher Bergland - https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes way/201303/mindfulness-made-simple

Mindfulness is simply about being mindful of what you’re thinking and deciding where you choose to focus your attention. Ideally, one would choose to focus his or her attention towards compassion, loving-kindness, and optimism. Mindfulness is about deciding to look on the bright side and deciding to be kind to yourself and others. That’s it.

I began to recognise that I tend to be most mindful when I am walking my dogs daily. I get a feeling of grounding myself and being close to nature. I have a break, my mind empties and I feel refreshed. So for me the benefits of being mindful are natural and can only bring more good feeling by being more conscious and purposeful with mindfulness.

So if you are having a bad time and there seems to be nothing you can do to change it, being “Mindful” could get you through the day.

So what are my tips for having a mindful day?

Try one or all of these several times a day and notice how your day is better.
Which 3 tips are you going to try today? Choose now. Why not start with a tip once you have read this blog?

1.       Start with a good stretch when you wake up.

2.       Spend a moment reflecting about the good things in your life.

3.       Smile the biggest smile you can. 

4.       Stand outside in the morning air and feel the day and fill your lungs with air.

5.       Spend a moment to savour your cup of tea, coffee or water.

6.       Look in the mirror and appreciate your inner and outer beauty.

7.       Go for a walk. Listen to the sounds of nature. Smell the air. See the movement of trees and plants.

8.       Look out of your window and notice how buildings meet the sky.

9.       When you feel negative take a moment to stop and then choose to be positive.

10.    Take 15 seconds to close your eyes, when you open them again carry on your day with kindness and compassion.

Have a great mindful day :)

 

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