It’s January. The holidays are over, kids are back in school, and you may be tired of the cold weather or of being cooped up in the house. Being in the moment can help get you and your family through the winter.
What is mindfulness?
Put simply, it’s being present in the moment.
Multi-tasking, juggling schedules, and thinking negative or random thoughts can be draining. Practicing mindfulness engages your attention from those things and help you better engage with your surroundings. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can improve physical health and fulfilling relationships.
How do we practice mindfulness?
Through meditation: find a comfortable place to sit on the floor with your back to the wall. Focus on slowing your breathing down, and feel the air move in and out of your body through your nose. Try out a meditation app for your iPhone or Android.
Other activities
Bird Watching – connect with nature and sharpen your observation skills. Be on the lookout for birds while walking through the park or around your home.
Eat Mindfully – take the time to appreciate your food. Practice by eating a piece of chocolate. Use your senses to discover how the chocolate looks, feels, and smells. Let the chocolate melt on your tongue slowly to savor the taste.
Get Crafty – concentrated, repetitive movement can help align both sides of your mind. Try knitting or knotting mala beads.
As winter gives way to spring, remember to step back and look at the changing surroundings. Be aware of the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Who knows what you may notice.
