Mindful Monday - Sharing some mindfulness practices.

Photographer credit - Agnieszka Czech

What is Mindful Meditation?

At its core, mindful meditation involves bringing your awareness to the present moment, without judgment. It's about being fully engaged in what you are doing, and focusing on the now. This practice has a myriad of benefits, including reducing stress, enhancing self-awareness, and improving overall well-being.

I am a Mother of a teen boy, he is 11 years old and I work full-time; juggling many things such as school runs, after-school activities, house chores etc. Being mindful and grounded has tremendously supported me in my journey. I try to recognise the burn-out signs and symptoms early on, and listen to my body.

Grounding Techniques

One powerful way to start your mindfulness journey is by incorporating grounding techniques into your daily routine. Grounding techniques help anchor you to the present moment and can be especially beneficial during moments of anxiety or stress. One simple grounding technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 method: acknowledge 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste.

Breathing Exercises

Breath is a powerful tool that can instantly bring you back to the present moment. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. This practice is known to calm the nervous system and induce a state of relaxation.

Gratitude Journaling

Cultivating a sense of gratitude is an integral part of mindfulness. Consider starting a gratitude journal where you write down things you are thankful for each day. You could start by writing one thing a day that you are grateful for. This very simple practice can shift your focus towards positivity and enhance your overall outlook on life.

Example - Today, I am grateful for my good health. My body supports me and I support my body by listening to it, and giving it what it needs at every moment.

Nature Walks

Connecting with nature is a beautiful way to practice mindfulness. Nature has a way of bringing a sense of serenity to our busy lives. I love to walk in my local park barefoot, and connect with what's around me - especially the tree and flowers, but also the birds or the squirrels running around.

Green suggestion - If you live in London, I recommend the Kyoto Garden (near Holland Park). I also love Morden Hall Park, in South-East London (literally a few seconds walk from Phipps Bridge tram stop - around 25/30mns tram journey from East Croydon).

Finally, let's remember that the present moment is where life truly happens.

Have a bright day,

P