The best way to capture moments is to pay attention . This is how we cultivate mindfulness.
Mindfulness involves paying attention to each event experienced in the present moment within our body and mind, with a non-judgmental, non-reactive and accepting attitude. In learning to be mindful, we can begin to counter many of our everyday challenges such as stress, anxiety and depression because we are learning to experience events in a more impersonal and
detached way.Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to, and seeing clearly whatever is happening in our lives. It will not eliminate life’s pressures, but it can help us respond to them in a calmer manner that benefits our heart, head, and body. It helps us recognise and step away from habitual, often unconscious emotional and physiological reactions to everyday events. It provides us with a scientifically researched approach to cultivating clarity, insight, and understanding. Practicing mindfulness allows us to be fully present in our life and work, and improve our quality of life.
Mindful living is Conscious, Calm, Purposeful, Grateful, and Focused: it promotes peace and awareness.
Automatic living is Unconscious, Habitual, Restless, Rushed, and Scattered: it creates anxiety, depression and fear.
Mindfulness:
- Helps you live life more fully
- Quiets your mind, opens your heart and brings about balance
- Relaxes your body, reduces stress
- Retrains your brain
- Enhances appreciation and gratitude
- Helps you break unhealthy habits
- Minimizes scatteredness and distraction
- Increases energy
- Helps you love yourself and others more freely and deeply
There are four elements:
(1) Paying attention, Almost any person or thing we give our close attention to gains value in our hearts and minds. This is because it increases our understanding and appreciation. Because paying loving attention often results in valuing, understanding, and enjoying what you pay attention to, it’s incredibly important that you place yourself near or at the top of your pay-attention to list. It also allows us to recognize habits and behaviors that no longer add value and joy to our lives – you can then make a different choice that will lead to increased well-being, health, peace of mind, calm, and balance.
(2) living in the moment It is possible to think about the past or the future while being fully in the present moment, as long as we are conscious of the fact that we are doing so.
(3) simplifying Our time and energy are often consumed by demands of multiple obligations and opportunities. Mindful moments calm our souls, quiet our minds, and open our hearts. When there is clutter in our homes…simplifying creates inner and outer space and space invites serenity.
(4) breathing Breath is the bridge between body and mind and the gateway to the present moment. It’s important to pay attention to the breath, deepen the breath, and direct the breath to areas in our body and mind that need relief. Breathing from the diaphragm triggers the relaxation response in the body.