Mindfulness
[ˈmīn(d)f(ə)lnəs]
NOUN
the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.
a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.
What if I told you the simple art of practicing & achieving mindfulness could be the single most important hack to taking your life to the next level and feeling better (both physically and emotionally) than you ever have? What if I told you teaching your children how to maintain mindfulness can improve their attention, focus, confidence and mood (all critical attributes to becoming a successful and happy adult)? Would you be hooked???
The research is clear. Practicing mindfulness through meditation and other exercises has profound impacts on our health - from fighting anxiety and depression to improving self love and compassion to higher brain and immune function to increased clarity and healthy perceptions to experience of being calm, still and connected. Sign me up!
Today's world can be overwhelming and full of pressures to uphold a certain standard -- at home, at the workplace, among piers, among our children and social media. Whether we like to admit it or not, we know this is a reality - some apply to ourselves and others we see our loved ones struggling with. More than ever, we need to pull ourselves in and let go of the past, regain faith in the future and embrace the present. Where do we start??
Take an in depth look at the health benefits of mindfulness -- you'll clearly see why it needs to be a priority in our lives as well as in our loved ones.
Or listen to a podcase by one of my favorite health bio-hackers and local spokanites!
https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/podcast/lifestyle-podcasts/how-to-meditate/
Visit your local bookstore or shop online for the top mindfulness books and find one that speaks to you.
Check out the top apps - ones for kids and adults!
https://makemindpowerful.com/best-mindfulness-apps/
It doesn't have to meditation or perhaps that's never going to be your thing....so for you maybe its starting each day with a prayer or 5 deep breaths, listening to and feeling each one or a 10 minute morning yoga routine.... It can be simple!
Check this link out for more ideas and find one that speaks to you!
https://www.developgoodhabits.com/mindfulness-exercises/
Let's take a deep breathe and live for today!
About the Author:
Katie Nelson is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, Registered Dietitian. Katie works with her clients in designing individualized nutrition & fitness programs to help you achieve optimal health, body composition & performance. She specialize in running specific, weight loss & optimal health/fitness in addition to nutrition for sports, preventative health, food allergies & body composition. Check out her Facebook page Here.