Help
Loading...
New Mindful Living Club starts in Southsea
| Author: null null | Published: 19th August 2013 17:58 |
"When we are mindful, our attention is not entangled in the past or future, and we are not judging or rejecting what is occurring in the moment. We are present. This kind of attention generates energy, clear headedness, and joy. Fortunately it is a skill that can be cultivated
by anyone." Christopher Germer.
Many people have heard of the term 'mindfulness' but aren't sure what it means.
Its origins are based on ancient meditation practices associated with Buddhism and Hinduism, but mindfulness programmes are now recommended within the National Health Service as the preferred treatment for severe recurring depression. Mindfulness is used to help physical conditions too, such as pain management. It's also a way of life which helps reduce stress and anxiety.
Mindfulness is about learning to be more fully aware and in the present moment. It represents a way of freeing ourselves from thoughts about the past and worries about the future.
Mindfulness is based on practising meditations but it's not about ‘emptying your mind'. It's normal and natural for the mind to wander and we are constantly distracted. The key to being more mindful is to become more aware of these distractions. Mindfulness doesn't claim to ‘make everything better'. In fact it's more about changing your relationship with your thoughts and feelings. Being mindful is about facing whatever is in the present moment, whether this feels pleasant, unpleasant or neutral.
Mindfulness is much more than about relaxation. It helps to increase awareness, wisdom and choice about how you want to live your life. However, learning the habit of paying attention moment by moment can often mean you feel more relaxed and calm.
Breathing, noticing, and concentration, are all different skills which are developed as part of mindful meditation exercises. Mindfulness also uses all our senses and movement to help us become fully engaged in daily activities, being absorbed by what we are doing in the here and now.
Report this article as inappropriate
Comments
You need to log in before you can do that! It's only a quick registration process to join the AMA network and completely free.
Help