This week in class we learned coping skill #2: Mindfulness.
What is mindfulness? Pulling from Jon Kabat-Zinn “Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the moment and without judgement.”
It means paying attention to the moment without your mind making a bunch of judgements like “I hate this”, “this is bugging me” (all your many opinions) and just breathing while being aware of the present moment.
Mindfulness is a deliberate act of regulating attention through the observation of thoughts, emotions and body sensations.
Ways to practice mindfulness:
* At a stop light use the time to just breathe in and out and let your mind come to the present moment watching your breath.
* Next time you shower, use the time to mindfully focus on the temperature of the water or the smell of the soap. When your mind wonders to a thought or emotion, just say, “oh well” and come back to the very moment you are living in and watch your breath.
* Use essential oils to help your mind just focus on your breath. Breathe the smell in and out, focusing on the breath.
* Sit with your warm tea or coffee in your hands and focus your attention on your breath and notice your body and the warmth in your hands.
Try using a mindful moment 2 minutes a day.
Follow up on Instagram for daily thoughts and insights. @mind_helm