Mindfulness, is the concept that encourages individuals to bring one’s attention to experiences in the present situation. This includes not making presumptions of validity based on previous learning. This helps to avoid unnecessary conflicts. In other words, live in the present, not in the past. Therefore, could being mindful and present be one of the secrets to happiness?
Today, we live in a world full of distractions. In a way we’ve become more connected, but at the same time, more disconnected. We’ve seemed to lose our sense of interest with each other. Our attention span seems shorter. Our memory doesn’t seem as sharp. The connection with other humans doesn’t seem as strong. On average, Americans check their phones about 150 times per day. Really, we’ve traded gadgets for human interaction. Likes for validation. Snapchat for entertainment. But, does this really make us happy? Does being so connected cause us to be disconnected in real life? Checking our phones every six minutes definitely isn’t conducive to meaningful social interactions. For example, have you ever went somewhere and seen a group of friends together, BUT all face down in their phones? Exhibiting no engagement with one another. Is there really a point of going out together? This example is the opposite of being mindful and could potentially illuminate the cause of unhappiness for so many! Again, being mindful isn’t limited to situations with friends, but applies to every situation in life where others are involved! Remember, this is a practice. A consistent practice, eventually leads to a lifestyle.
benefits of being mindful
Mindfulness, has been found to be a key element in happiness. This includes accepting the present moment without judgement. Overall, this practice improves well-being, physical health, and mental health. By focusing on the here and now, we tend to stress less over the past or the future. When we stress less, we sleep better, reduce chronic pain, reduce the risk of heart disease, and reduce blood pressure. Furthermore, if we practice mindfulness meditation, we can reduce depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and conflicts with others. Some experts believe mindfulness works by helping people accept their experiences even if they’re painful rather than avoiding the emotions. In other words, it’s harmful to suppress thoughts, feelings, and emotions. We should acknowledge them and then allow them to pass. This helps to get rid of fear and pain. This creates a sense of inner peace and empowerment!
mindfulness techniques
- Relaxation Breathing– This technique is fantastic if you are feeling anxious, pressured or stressed. This can be done anywhere at anytime. When we utilize this technique, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This regulates breath to lower the heart rate and blood pressure. The key point to remember is to make sure the exhale is longer than the inhale. For example, inhale for a count of four and exhale for a count of eight. By doing this for at least one minute, it signals our bodies “rest & digest” mode VS our “fight or flight” mode. This helps us to become more mindful VS reactionary.
- Mindful Breathing Meditation– A team of Harvard researchers found that it ONLY takes 8 weeks of daily practice to feel the benefits. These benefits include increased inner peace and clarity. According to the MRI’s from the test group, those who practiced mindful breathing meditation daily showed an increase of gray matter associated with focus and attention. Furthermore, those same MRI’s showed a decrease in gray matter associated with stress and anxiety. The key point to remember while meditating is to use breathing as the object of focus. This can be done by concentrating deeply on the rhythm and feeling of our most basic life force, breathing. This strengthens our “attention muscle” by forcing awareness inward which challenges you to stay focused. Click here to learn how to breathe correctly.
- Being Present– This is probably the most self explanatory, yet, a lost art. Mainly due to the rise of technology and endless gadgets. We’ve seemed to develop a “fear of missing out” aka “FOMO” mentality. Therefore, we stay glued to our phones. In reality, we’re only missing out on the opportunity to connect with each other in real life. Again, this is a practice. Also, a choice.
the choice is yours…
In reality, humans were meant to connect with each other. This means really listening to and engaging with others. This not only nourishes our soul, but it allows us to learn a lot about each other. When we better understand each other, we become less judgmental. Less judgement leaves more room for self-improvement. Self-improvement leads to more happiness. Happiness leads to overall well-being. This is my ultimate goal. This is “why” I make the choice to practice mindfulness daily. I encourage others to find their “why” to reap the benefits as well from this amazing practice!