Here are 5 quick mindfulness exercises to get started.
Mindfulness has been getting a lot of attention in the media lately, but it is hardly a fad, and has been around for thousands of years! Put simply, mindfulness is immersing yourself in the current moment, and blocking out what is happening around you.
Breathe consciously
Take 10 minutes to breathe. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and acknowledge your thoughts without labelling or judging. The secret is to not be too strict on yourself!
Focus on details
Observe a small, inanimate object for 5 minutes. Pay attention to every single detail, as though that object is the only one in the world.
Eat mindfully
Pay attention to how you chew, and all the textures and tastes, and remember to pause to breathe between bites. Pay attention to the food, and the sensations of eating, including when you feel “full”.
Test all 5 senses
Think of 5 things you can see, 4 you can feel, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste. This is a great way to calm yourself down in moments of stress!
Go for a mindful walk
Leave the iPod behind, and be present in the moment. Concentrate on all the sensations you feel, focusing on your breath and your environment.
Mastering Mindfulness
Here are 5 quick mindfulness exercises to get started.
Mindfulness has been getting a lot of attention in the media lately, but it is hardly a fad, and has been around for thousands of years! Put simply, mindfulness is immersing yourself in the current moment, and blocking out what is happening around you.
Breathe consciously
Take 10 minutes to breathe. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and acknowledge your thoughts without labelling or judging. The secret is to not be too strict on yourself!
Focus on details
Observe a small, inanimate object for 5 minutes. Pay attention to every single detail, as though that object is the only one in the world.
Eat mindfully
Pay attention to how you chew, and all the textures and tastes, and remember to pause to breathe between bites. Pay attention to the food, and the sensations of eating, including when you feel “full”.
Test all 5 senses
Think of 5 things you can see, 4 you can feel, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste. This is a great way to calm yourself down in moments of stress!
Go for a mindful walk
Leave the iPod behind, and be present in the moment. Concentrate on all the sensations you feel, focusing on your breath and your environment.