5 Ways for Fantastic Mindfulness

Published on August 17, 2021

At times, stress from everyday responsibilities and expectations can wear us down, with our energy levels feeling depleted. Instilling mindfulness into your daily routine can allow you to feel more relaxed while living at the moment.

To start off, let’s explain what mindfulness exactly entails. Put simply, it is the ability to be completely aware of the present and going with the flow of it. This includes not overreacting to events or contributions of others inserted into our lives. Contrary to the assumption that only certain people can achieve mindfulness, every human possesses this ability. It is more of the matter of realizing our inner potential and letting go.

Of course, mindfulness requires a deep extent of introspection. You need to grow comfortable in taking a step back and looking at your well-being. It may be challenging at first, but the benefits are certainly worth it. Here are some strategies to bring out your mindfulness during everyday life.

Take a mindful shower or walk

Taking a shower can allow you to declutter your thoughts. While showering, you should remember to acknowledge the feeling of water or the smell of your favorite body wash. Take the time to adjust the water temperature to your living, whether you like it hot or cold. Making your shower as satisfying as possible can make it more comfortable for you to stray away from your daily hassles.

A similar take can be said for taking a walk around your neighborhood. It can be your chance to be intimate with nature. Try walking along a nature trail and really engage your senses. Make note of the animals you hear while walking. Feel the light breeze or sun rays grazing your skin. Take a deep breath of the aromatic flowers and plants. You can really find your happy place in nature

Journaling

Having your own journal or diary to write your thoughts can empower you with the chance to explore your deepest desires and interests. Not only that, you can do it with the comfort knowing that nobody else will get the chance to read your thoughts. Of course, you could always share your main points in your journaling sessions with your trusted circle, but it is up to your discretion. Be sure to designate a spot in your house alongside a time block (anywhere between 30 minutes- 1 hour). You may be able to learn new stuff about yourself that you have not realized after reading back on your entries.

Listen over Speaking

Whenever we have a conversation with someone else, we focus on giving out our input. It is with this behavior that we tend to skip out on valuable information or perspective from the other person. Remember, a conversation cannot be held with a single person. It requires at least 2 people to make an engaging and thought-provoking conversation that leaves each other party feeling satisfied. Next time that you are talking to someone, be sure to keep your ears open!

Switch your day up

Do you tend to live day-by-day? If so, you may be feeling disengaged or bored about doing the same thing, day in and day out. Try doing something spontaneous. Of course, you have to abide by your daily responsibilities. For instance, it would be unreasonable and unrealistic to wake up and decide to start a whole new life in another country. Take baby steps. Maybe check out that new restaurant in your town instead of eating at the same place for lunch. Maybe, plan a weekend excursion with your friends and loved ones. Take a different way to get to work, and you will encounter new people. The possibilities are in your favor.

This also coincides with doing things you love. We are not machines. We are humans, and we are not programmed to work, sleep, and then repeat. Take some time out of your day to enjoy your joys. Maybe it’s painting. Maybe it’s grocery shopping. Maybe it’s gardening. Everyone is unique and that translates to our interests/ hobbies. No hobby is better than another. As long as it brings satisfaction into your life, that’s all that matters.

Meditation

This is the most obvious strategy for a reason. It is an effective approach that pushes you to focus directly on your breathing and body sensations.

When you wake up in the morning, try starting your day with some morning meditation. Sit in a comfortable position and think about how you want your day. Think about all the things you will be able to accomplish. Look inwards and find how you are holding up. Try to see if you can identify any unhealthy cognitive patterns that may restrict you from your success. If you want, you could incorporate a list of mantras to guide your meditation session and boost your interest in today’s work.