Lately, I’ve been on a journey to find more peace and balance in my life. Between the daily hustle, responsibilities, and the constant noise of the world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. One practice that has made a significant difference for me is mindfulness.
What is Mindfulness?
At its core, mindfulness is about being present in the moment. It’s the practice of paying full attention to what you are doing, without distraction or judgment. Whether it’s eating a meal, walking, or simply breathing, mindfulness invites us to fully engage with our experiences.
Why Practice Mindfulness?
For a long time, I underestimated the power of mindfulness. I thought it was just another trendy buzzword. But as I started to explore it, I realized how grounding and transformative it could be. Mindfulness helps us slow down and appreciate the little moments that often go unnoticed. It brings a sense of calm and clarity that can be a refuge amidst life’s chaos.
How to Start a Mindfulness Practice
Starting a mindfulness practice doesn’t require any special equipment or a lot of time. Here are a few simple steps to get you started:
- Find a Quiet Space:
- Begin by finding a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. It can be a corner of your room, a park bench, or anywhere you feel comfortable.
- Focus on Your Breath:
- Sit comfortably, close your eyes if you like, and take a few deep breaths. Pay attention to the sensation of the air entering and leaving your lungs. Notice how your body feels as you breathe in and out.
- Be Present:
- As you breathe, try to bring your focus to the present moment. If your mind starts to wander (which it will), gently bring it back to your breath. This isn’t about stopping your thoughts but rather about noticing them and letting them pass without getting caught up.
- Practice Regularly:
- Consistency is key. Even just a few minutes each day can make a difference. Over time, you might find it easier to stay present and experience the benefits of mindfulness more deeply.
The Benefits of Mindfulness
Incorporating mindfulness into my daily routine has brought several benefits. I’ve found that I’m more patient and less reactive. I’m able to handle stress better, and I feel more connected to the people around me. Mindfulness has also helped me appreciate the simple joys of life, like the taste of my morning coffee or the sound of birds outside my window.
Making Mindfulness a Habit
Like any new habit, making mindfulness a regular part of your life takes practice. Here are a few tips that have helped me:
- Set a Routine: Try to practice at the same time each day. Morning mindfulness can set a positive tone for the day, while evening practice can help you unwind.
- Start Small: Begin with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable.
- Be Kind to Yourself: It’s normal for your mind to wander or for some sessions to feel more challenging than others. Be patient and gentle with yourself.
Mindfulness is a simple yet powerful practice that can bring more peace, clarity, and joy into our lives. It’s about finding moments of stillness and presence amidst the busyness of everyday life. If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with yourself and find more balance, I encourage you to give mindfulness a try. It might just be the breath of fresh air you need.
Have you tried mindfulness? I’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you have for incorporating it into daily life.
Now, for the three things I’m grateful for:
1 – A reliable vehicle. I know this sounds silly, but having to travel a lot for work and life really makes me appreciate that I am able to afford a vehicle which will get me from point A to point B without any troubles. Monday, I had to take my daughter back to her father and it was wonderful not having to worry about whether or not I will make it there and back successfully.
2- My career. A lot of you may not realize this, but running Coffee. Mom. Repeat. and our amazing savings/couponing group What Heather Found is how I make 100% of my income. It’s a bit unconventional and it’s taken me almost a decade to get to where I am with it, but it provides a life where I am able to stay home with my babies, was able to be at the beck and call of my husband, while allowing me to travel the world.
3 – My best friend, Nathalie. Without her, I probably would have committed 84 crimes by now and wouldn’t be where I am today. She’s always been my rock, my confidante, and was probably my girlfriend in a past life, haha. She’s the most wonderful human being I have ever met and is always so selfless even when her world is also falling apart. I’m also completely confident that if anyone read our conversations, we would be locked in a padded room for the rest of our lives!
