What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a big buzzword in the wellness industry right now. Many therapists, coaches and high performers have discussed the benefits of mindfulness, but for some, it is still an illusive concept. Hopefully, today we can change that!

Mindfulness is simply living in the present moment. To be mindful is to tap into your immediate sensory experience to live as both participant and observer. Developing mindfulness, while challenging, is a skill you can develop with everyday practice.

 

Mindfulness is simply living in the present moment

 

But why even bother?  The benefits of mindfulness are vast. Generally, I consider it a philosophy and a way of life, but it also a tool that can help you reduce stress, lower anxiety, improve mood and elevate overall wellness.

Why wouldn’t you want to feel those changes if you could?

Often people conflate mindfulness with meditation but they are not one in the same. You do not have to meditate to be mindful. Furthermore, you do not have to adopt spiritual or religious practices to gain the benefits of being attuned to your present moment.

Mindfulness is the process by which we direct attention to what is currently happening.  Moreover, it is about using the tools you have at your disposal to focus in on the present moment. Mindfulness can help redirect you from worry, rumination and other negative feelings.

Take a moment to take stock of where you are right now as you’re reading this. Take a moment to feel how your body feels as it’s sitting or standing. Do you notice tension or discomfort anywhere? And how does the temperature in the room feel around you? Are you warm or cool? How does your body feel?

 

Mindfulness is paying attention to the here-and-now

 

This is just one brief example of the beginning stages of developing mindfulness. In the early stages, it might be helpful to check in with that stillness to develop this muscle. As you develop your capacity for developing that awareness, you won’t have to “stop” as much to pay attention. As you flex your mindfulness muscles you won’t have to stop your life to check in with yourself and your immediate experience.

Mindfulness isn’t just a tool for when you need quiet time. It’s a strategy that you can practice while doing any task by tapping into your available senses. The next time you are drinking a cup of coffee, before you take that sip just smell what the coffee smells like and describe it to yourself internally. Notice how the weight of the mug feels in your hand. Notice the warmth of the coffee as you drink it. What does it feel like? If you had no experience with coffee before, how would you describe it?

This focus and attention to a singular experience is mindfulness.

You can practice mindfulness at any point throughout your day. When you are washing the dishes, check in with yourself. As you are lifting at the gym, ask yourself how it feels. As you run, switch your attention to your breath or how hard or soft your feet touch the ground. As you do, you’ll be practicing mindfulness!

 

To learn more about mindfulness and work with mindfulness coach, and Viva Wellness Co-Founder Jor-El Caraballo, visit vivawellnessnyc.com for more information.