Mindfulness has become something of a catchphrase in the wellness world. Everywhere you go, you will find advice telling you to be more mindful. But what does mindfulness really mean? Mindfulness is just a fancy word for paying attention. When we are mindful we are fully present in the moment. We are paying attention to the task at hand without multitasking or distractions.
When we are paying attention, it becomes easier to enjoy the mundane moments of our lives. When we are mindful, we are more award of the gifts that exist in our daily routines. When we are focusing on the present moment, we are less anxious, because we are not worrying about the future. In these ways, mindfulness leads to a happier and more fulfilled life.
Mindfulness is not just something that you do on a meditation cushion. It’s something that can be easily incorporated into our daily routines and tasks.
Here are 5 simple ways to add more mindfulness to your life.
Mindfulness While Making Your Bed
Every morning when you make your bed, you can use that time to set an intention for your day. An intention is simply a goal, or a sentence that describes how you want to feel. An example of an intention that I use often is “I am patient, peaceful, and present.” Take a few moments as you make your bed each morning to lovingly tend your sheets and feel the warmth of your blanket, the softness of your pillows, and the gratitude for the person you share your bed with. From this place of mindfulness, you can set your intention for the rest of your day.
Mindfulness While Using Water
Water has cleansing properties, so every time you come into contact with water throughout the day can be an opportunity to cleanse yourself of anything that you want to get rid of. Every time you shower, wash your hands, or do the dishes, you can imagine that you are quite literally rinsing off stress and negativity from your life. When you drink water, feel its coolness moving through your body and imagine it cleansing your body of any negative thoughts and emotions.
Mindfulness While Eating
Eating is a perfect opportunity to be practice being more mindful. We all have to eat several times throughout the day, and each of those times is a chance to focus and be present with your food. Eat your meals intentionally. Sit down and set a beautiful place setting. Put away your phone, shut off the TV, and eat for pleasure, not just for the sake of eating. Thank your food for nourishing you, and fully enjoy every single bite.
Mindfulness While Driving
The car can also be a good place to pick up some new mindfulness habits. Every time you are at a red light, focus on doing some deep breathing exercises. Take in your surroundings, feel yourself sitting down, and breathe deeply in and out of your nose. By doing this, you will arrive at your destination feeling much more calm and relaxed. It even works when you are stuck in traffic!
Mindfulness While Walking
As you are walking about your day, take some time to feel your feet on the ground and the breeze on your face. Put your phone away and practice walking without distractions; it will help clear your mind and relieve stress. You will enjoy every step!
I hope that these 5 simple ideas get you started with adding more mindfulness to your life. We are so lucky to be alive, we might as well pay attention so that we can truly enjoy it!
Which of these mindfulness habits will you be trying first? Let me know in the comments below!
Have a lovely week full of mindfulness. 🙂
Be well,
Ambar
