What Is Mindfulness?

What Is Mindfulness?

You’ve probably heard someone tell you that you should be a little more mindful. But what exactly is mindfulness? And how does it apply to your life?

Mindfulness Is Being Present

Mindfulness means that you are fully aware of your surroundings and what is happening in the here and now. But it doesn’t mean that you overreact or become overwhelmed by what is going on. Instead, being mindful is being present in the moment. Sometimes you may drift away from the current time and place, but it is mindfulness that will snap you right back to where you are right now. Mindfulness is also acceptance of the person you are, just as you are.

Mindfulness Isn’t Just In Your Head

Although mindfulness is something that happens in your thoughts, it doesn’t just affect your thoughts. Instead, it affects your entire body. Being mindful is checking in with your body to see how you are feeling. When you become more aware, you become more in tune with your body and the natural processes which occur without you even noticing, such as your breathing and heartbeat. This can have a relaxing effect, which will help you combat anxiety and physical pain, which may be the result of mental stress or anguish.

Is Mindfulness Something Difficult To Do?

Mindfulness is something that comes naturally to humans. Sometimes it may take some practice to embrace mindfulness, but this practice isn’t anything complicated. Mindfulness practice can simply be taking a moment to think or spending a few minutes each day in journaling or meditation.

The best way to practice mindfulness is by pausing during your daily activities and doing a complete check-in with yourself. How are your thoughts? Are they where they are supposed to be? If not, adjust them. Then, take a few deep breaths while checking in with the different parts of your physical body. Do you have pain anywhere? Are you holding in stress? Now is the time to figure out why and take action to resolve these stresses in your body. Sometimes, a few more deep breaths can be all it takes. Then you can resume your day in a more mindful state.

Overall, mindfulness is the state of being present both physically and mentally in life. It helps to cut down on anxiety and bring awareness into everything you do. And best of all, it’s not complicated. Anyone can learn mindfulness with just a little practice.