What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a very powerful way of living. Being mindful has helped me to connect with my inner self and find peace. Now you are probably wondering, what is mindfulness? Well, it is being aware of the present moment. I know, it sounds simple but actually doing it can be challenging, especially in the world we live in today. There's technology and a many other things that can consume our lives and take away from our experience of the present moment.

We can worry about the future or regret the past, but the most real a sensory experience can be is in the present moment, now. The present is a good time- we can gain control of our lives within it and become aware of the way we are now. When there is an awareness of our present being, we become more in tune with our true needs and desires. Through this, we can further become aware of the changes we need to make for the future. Becoming mindful of the present allows for better decision-making.

Why? Because when we are aware of our needs in the moment, then we have the power to change the future in a way that is truly beneficial to our well-being and happiness.

Here are a few ways to bring you closer to the present moment:

1 Be Present to Physical Sensations

Become aware of the sensations in your body at this time. Notice them, without judgement. Are your hands cold? Do you feel comfortable? Is your breathing deep? Are your muscles relaxed?

2 Be Present to What you are Doing

Notice the things you are doing in this moment. What are you engaged in? You may notice things that you have never before. As you are doing the things that you do, get in tune with your senses. How does that soup smell? How does the music sound? The trees and water, how are they?

3 Be Present in Relationships

When we are in a conversation with someone, such as a friend, it is easy to get sidetracked and think about other things. Or think about what we want to say. You might find though, that truly listening to someone when they speak is a rewarding practice. You learn more about the other person and then what you say to them after they speak will not only make more sense, but will deepen the meaning of the conversation. I have found that through really being with someone and listening to them, I am able to contribute more and develop a stronger connection with them.

By being aware of the present moment, we are able to experience something for what it is. We are able to notice the simple, yet profoundly beautiful things in life that we otherwise might not notice if we were caught up in a busy schedule, thinking about what's next. Being mindful brings the mind and body together in a peaceful state. I have found that experiencing in the moment has allowed me to discover what really feels good and what doesn't. It has given me perspective and allowed me to make wise choices for the future.