Do you feel the pressures of modern living and that life is passing you by?
Is your head constantly full of thoughts, ideas and things you need ‘to do?’ Do you think too much about what happened in the past and what might happen in the future? If the answer to any of these questions is yes then maybe it’s time to stop and think about the here and now and be part of the present. Mindfulness can be one way to help you achieve this.
Be Mindful defines mindfulness as:
‘..the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, with compassion and open-hearted curiosity. Through cultivating mindful awareness, we discover how to live in the present moment rather than brooding about the past or worrying about the future.’
What are the benefits of being mindful?
Your emotional health or mental well-being is just as important as your physical health and well-being. Being more aware of the present can help focus the mind, raise awareness of the here and now and help us to appreciate the world around us more. Practicing mindfulness can also help:
- Create an awareness of our thoughts and feelings and what triggers those thoughts and feelings – good or bad
- Reduce stress, anxiety or depression
- Boost attention and concentration
Anyone can learn mindfulness. It does however take practice, but the results can be wonderful, even life changing. Sign up to a course, either one to one or find a group. Download an app or get together with friends to explore the great benefits of being mindful together and enjoying the here and now. Check out the following links for more information, find a teacher or start an on-line course:
Check out ‘Balance’ London’s new FREE monthly Health and Well-being magazine, which aims to reach 200,000 Londoners with content on mindfulness and well-being.
Information sources: Be Mindful and NHS Choices
