What is Mindfulness?

It seems contradictory but mindfulness is not about keeping your mind “full”, it’s the practice of becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings without reacting to them.

How to Practice Mindfulness

• Observe your thoughts without judgement eg: I notice I am having anxious thoughts

• Notice your feelings, again without judgement eg: I notice I am feeling angry

• Can you locate where in your body those feelings lie?

• Thoughts and feelings pass- let them float by like clouds in the sky

• Listen more, interrupt less- this decreases reactivity 

• Walking in nature without technology- leave your phone at home if you can

Why Mindfulness Matters To Overall Health

• Reduced stress

• Emotional regulation- less flying off the handle

•  Better mood

• Better relationships 

• Better health due to lowered stress hormones such as cortisol