By Kiah Loewen, RYT200, BHK
In a previous blog post, we defined mindfulness and why it is such a powerful practice. In this post we will explore a few of the ways you can practice mindfulness. Like anything, you will strengthen your ability to be mindful with practice. There is growing research showing that practicing mindfulness actually rewires the brain. Let’s take a look at some ways you can practice mindfulness in your daily life.
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Meditation:
Meditation can take many forms, but the basic principle is mindfulness. You can sit, lie down, stand up, close your eyes, open your eyes- however you are comfortable. Meditation is about awareness, noticing. You may become aware of the breeze on your skin, the pit in your stomach, the tinging in your toes. Your thoughts will not turn off, but you can choose to notice them without following them. Whatever is happening, meditation asks us to suspend judgement and approach ourselves with curiosity and gentleness. We allow whatever is, to be.
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Showering:
Daily tasks such as showering are wonderful opportunities to practice our mindfulness skills. The next time you are in the shower, notice the feeling of the water on your skin, the temperature, the pressure. Notice the smell of the soap, how the bubbles glisten. Use your senses to really be present in the experience.
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Walking:
While you are walking, instead of rushing to the next destination, use the journey as an opportunity to practice mindfulness. Become aware of your environment. What colours and textures do you see? Is there a breeze or a smell in the air? Notice the soles of your feet as you step, where the weight is placed, the feeling of the ground underneath you.
As you can see, mindfulness can be practiced anytime, anywhere. It’s all about bringing your attention to what is happening now, and accepting whatever we find without judgement.
