Mindfulness

Building the skill of being fully present in the moment is a powerful practice that can really help our overall sense of well-being. Mindfulness and present-moment attention can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, which means we are spending less time on auto-pilot, which is what alot of us do, most of the time. Being on autopilot means going through the motions, repeating patterns and behaviours whether they are helpful or not and paying very little attention to what is really going on both externally and internally.  When we become more mindful, it can bring clarity, reduce stress, and enhance appreciation for life's small joys.  Like anything new, it takes practice, no quick fixes here I'm afraid, consistency is key—start small and see what resonates with you, then, practice, practice, practice.  As the saying goes, Rome wasn't built in a day, the mind needs time and repetition to form new connections, we're talking neuroplasticity, the brain's incredible ability to adapt and rewire itself in response to new experiences and learning.

• Mindful Breathing – Focus on your breath, noticing each inhale and exhale without trying to control it.
• Body Scan Meditation – Bring attention to different parts of your body, observing sensations and tension.
• Mindful Walking – Pay attention to each step, the sensation of your feet touching the ground, and the rhythm of your movement.
• Gratitude Practice – Reflect on things you're grateful for, whether big or small, to shift focus to positivity.
• Sensory Awareness – Tune into what you see, hear, taste, smell, and feel in a given moment to fully experience your surroundings.
• Single-Tasking – Instead of multitasking, devote your full attention to one activity, like eating, reading, or conversing.
• Observing Thoughts – Rather than getting caught up in your thoughts, try watching them come and go like passing clouds. 

Like anything in life, if you want to become good at something you need to practice.  All these ideas are hard at first, they take effort to remember and carry out.  However, if you stick with it, you will reap the benefits.  We have attached here two mindful practices from Acceptance and Commitment therapy for you to incorporate into your life. You could print this off and stick somewhere prominent, to act as a reminder of the exercises and also as a reminder of the commitment you are choosing to make to yourself to be more mindful and commit to something different.