Daily mindfulness practice
Too often we think that we need to set time aside to practice mindfulness. Here are seven ideas about how you can be mindful in your daily activities.
Wake up with intention - Take a few minutes each morning to set an intention for the day, for example: by taking a few deep breaths, focusing on what you want to achieve, or how you want to feel throughout the day.
Mindful eating - When eating, take the time to focus on the flavours, textures and smells of your food slowly and savour each bite. Try to avoid distractions such as watching TV or scrolling through your phone while eating.
Take a mindful walk - Take a walk outside and focus on your surroundings. Notice the sensation of your feet hitting the ground, the sound of birds chirping, and the feeling of the wind on your skin.
Practice deep breathing - Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and focus on taking slow, deep breaths, you can use apps, meditation cushion or simply focus on your breathing.
Mindful self-care - Take the time each day to engage in self-care activities that you enjoy, for example: yoga, reading, taking a warm bath. Pay attention to the sensations and feelings that arise during these activities and allow yourself to fully relax and let go of stress.
Reflect on the day - Before going to bed, take a few minutes to reflect on your day. Think about what went well and what didn’t. What you learned, what you felt and what you could have done better.
Get a good night’s sleep - Try to establish a regular sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding screens and other electronic devices for at least an hour before bed.
It’s important to remember that mindfulness is a practice and it takes time and patience to develop. It’s not about being perfect, but about being present and aware in the moment. Incorporating small mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help you become more aware of your thoughts, emotions and actions, and ultimately lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.