Mindfulness – What you Need to Know

It seems like everyone and their mother is talking about mindfulness these days. It’s certainly a new buzz word, but the practice is far from new dating all the way back to religious practices in the BC era. So, why is it all the craze? Studies have found that mindfulness creates awareness and calmness, as well as regulates emotions and cognition. It has also shown to improve focus and presence. In a world where we are constantly distracted by media and technology, practicing mindfulness is a great way to reconnect with yourself.

Mindfulness meditation can seem like a daunting foreign concept for a lot of people.

So, what is mindfulness? I’ve heard it being called a meditation practice, a state of mind and “paying attention on purpose”—being fully aware of your senses and everything around you. It’s about being dialed in and in tune with your current experience and choosing “executive action” mode over auto-pilot. Personally, I feel the most present when I’m in “flow” or a state where I’m concentrating on one thing, everything is coming together and time zips on by. I also feel extremely present when I workout. For me, it’s hard to be distracted when I’m lifting x pounds over my head or counting reps in a set, focusing on proper form and remembering to breath.

Mindfulness is about being fully present and 100% engaged in the moment while being aware of your surroundings.

Studies have also found that mindfulness practice improves overall well-being, reduces stress, anxiety and depression and even helps with weight-loss and weight-management (Read more about Mindful Eating in the Strong Girl Nutrition Guide). Having control over your mind helps in stressful situations where you need to calm yourself down and think clearly amid the frenzy.

So, if you’re always “turned on” and living a more mindful life, does your brain ever get a break? Practicing mindfulness definitely takes a lot of energy and intentional effort. It doesn’t happen overnight. Some have compared achieving mindfulness to learning a new language. But, once you do reach this “higher” level of presence, you do have more control over your mind and can allow your brain to rest or focus when needed. There are many benefits to letting your mind wind down and relax, as well. But, it’s about being able to control that and that’s what takes time.

While more research is being conducted about the long-term benefits of practicing mindfulness and living mindfully, studies have already found that mindfulness practice improves gray matter in the brain with an average of 30 minutes of practice a day for 8-weeks. You may be wondering if the only way to achieve mindfulness is by sitting for an hour in a traditional meditation pose while humming to yourself with your eyes closed. While you can certainly practice mindfulness while doing so, you can also start by practicing as you go about your day and by bringing your focus down to your breath. There are many resources and apps available that walk you through meditation and breathing exercises like Headspace.

I find that even everyday tasks or routine chores like washing dishes, sweeping or brushing your teeth are also opportunities where you can be fully present in the moment without letting your mind wander. This could be why many people find chores therapeutic. Focusing in on one current task and not multi-tasking is another way to limit distractions and improve awareness.

Adult coloring books have also become a fun and popular activity to help people self-sooth and de-stress from their day. On my recent trip to Miami, I spent some time at the Delano South Beach and learned about their new wellness initiative, “Spring Renewal” for guests staying at their hotels, that started in the Spring and is being continued throughout Summer. I picked up their coloring book and colored pencils, which is available at all Morgan’s Hotel Group properties and hotels around the world. I’m no artist, but I did notice how I wasn’t distracted while trying to focus and color within the lines!

Lastly, regularly taking yoga classes is obviously another way to improve mindfulness while stretching and moving your body. I’d love to know how do you practice mindfulness and how you’ve seen it improve your life. Leave your comments below! xoxo