Mindfulness – How it Helps with Mental Health

Ever since I took this journey to improve my mental health and well-being.  I am always looking into ways to help with depression and stress.  This part of my journey led me to a more natural and holistic way to cope.  I’m always open to anything related to meditation and relaxation. 

I came across the practice of MINDFULNESS.  Which by definition is maintaining awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, or surroundings as it happens in the present.  It is like turning our thoughts into what we’re sensing in this present moment, and not rehashing past events or stressing over the unknown future. 

I thought this practice would help me as I am an overthinker.  I replay scenarios, past conversations, and actions in my head before making a decision.  I find it difficult to make a snap decision on almost anything.  I worry about what will happen in the future if I didn’t make the right choice.  I reevaluate and second guess myself.  All of which adds to my stress level.  Tell me I’m not alone!

Why practice Mindfulness?  I’ve learned that it helps you change bad habits.  It helps with focus and attention.  It heightens awareness of where and what we’re doing.  It makes us more caring in everything we do.  I’ve also learned that it is already a quality we possess, we just have to learn how to tap into it. 

How does it help with mental health?  It’s synonymous with improvement, focus, enhanced performance, and self-awareness.

Think about this scenario: you woke up, got ready to begin your day, without thinking about how you would like this day to go for you.  You begin your work, your first call or email rubbed you the wrong way, you then react with rage, frustration, and impatience.  Emotions that you never intended to exhibit. 

Taking a moment to practice mindfulness, this scenario can have a positive outcome. 

I have been trying this for a month and I have felt a significant difference.  Remember the fact that it is about doing what’s right for your brain and body in the present.  You can follow THE COURSE  IN MINDFULNESS on Facebook with the founder and presenter PAUL SAMBORSKY. 

Here is a daily practice you can try:

• Wake up.  Start with a purpose.  Sit up.  Close your eyes.  Take a few deep breaths, breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. 

• Let your breath settle into its own rhythm.  Notice the rise and fall of your chest as you breathe.  

• Ask yourself “what is my intention today”?  How might I show up today and have the best impact?  What do I need to take better care of myself?  During difficult moments, how can I be more compassionate to others and myself?  How can I feel more connected and fulfilled?

• Set your intentions for the day.  You can say something like “today I will be patient with others and I will be kind to myself”.

• Check in with yourself as you go about your day.  Pause for a moment, take a deep breath, revisit those intentions as you become more and more conscious of these daily intentions.  Notice how the quality of your communication and interaction with others and your mood changes. 

I’d love to hear if you tapped into Mindfulness for the first time like I did or if you have practiced it beforehand how did it make you feel.  Comment and give your insight.  This is a safe place.  We’re here to learn from each other.

I’m a mental health advocate.  I’m always excited to try new and natural ways to relieve stress and anxiety.

XOXO

 

 

 

“Turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream”

JOHN LENNON