So what exactly is mindfulness?

It's become a buzzword that has been used more and more recently especially during the pandemic, but do we understand what it actually means?

The Oxford Dictionary defines mindfulness as

a mental state achieved by concentrating on the present moment, while calmly accepting the feelings and thoughts that come to you, used as a technique to help you relax

A therapist may teach mindfulness, a concept borrowed from Zen Buddhism.

Mindfulness is a way for body and mind to reconnect.

So the definition is pretty straightforward, all you have to do is be present with the moment and accept your feelings - easy right!!?? I think we would all love it if it were! In practice though most of us are rushing around from one thing to the next, we're taking care of others, focusing on our jobs, just trying to get through the day. Who has time to be mindful?

Well my friends, these are the reasons you should be practicing mindfulness! With all the busyness of day to day living, life is passing by in a blur. Being mindful helps us to slow down and appreciate what we have right now. After all this moment is the only one you have. The past, well, it's past! And the future? That hasn't happened yet - you only have the moment you're in right now. So make it great!

It's easy to talk about mindfulness and understand what it is but it's harder to integrate into our daily routine.

Here are just a few ideas for how you can do that:

Start a gratitude journal

I write down 5 things every day that I'm grateful for - it only takes a few minutes. Focus on the little things such as having been out for a walk, talking to a friend, the kids getting along! And you don't need a fancy journal either - just jot them down in your diary/planner or even on your phone.

Enjoy your food, savour that first cup of coffee!

As you're eating or drinking think about the smell, taste and texture - slow down and really enjoy each mouthful!

If you're outside just stop for a moment and take in the sights, sounds and smells - be grateful for your surroundings. Take notice of your breath and the movment of your body.

Exercise!

Yoga and Pilates are great ways to connect mind and body through breath and movement. Be aware of how your body is moving and how you feel before, during and after the class.

You can be mindful during everyday tasks too!

Whether you're doing dishes, laundry or cleaning your teeth take a moment to focus your mind on what you're doing. It might even make your chores less dull!

Listen mindfully

You can have a conversation with someone and not really be listening. Be really present, put your phone down, don't think about what you're going to say next!

Meditate

Finding time in your day to meditate has enormous benefits for your physical and mental wellbeing. Even 5 minutes of sitting still and allowing yourself to breathe can be beneficial. And don't worry if your mind is busy! Just focus on your breath and allow thoughts to come and go. There are lots of apps available such as Headspace and Calm which offer guided and unguided meditations.

If you're ready to introduce some mindfulness to your life - start simple! There's no point committing to an hour a day meditation practice if that's something you can't sustain! Choose a task that you already do and try and do it mindfully. Once you get the hang of that, add another task and so on!

I'd love to hear how you start incorporating mindfulness into your day!