Discover the Power of Mindfulness: Unlocking Inner Peace and Mental Clarity for a Healthier You
What is mindfulness?
Have you ever been so lost in thought that you reach for the second half of a sandwich, and it’s not there because you already ate it? (Guilty.)
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment, without judging what's happening inside (thoughts, feelings) and outside (body sensations, environment). It's training your brain to be fully present, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. In my estimation, that’s as hard as any physical training you might do.
Mindfulness is the state of being conscious and aware. As a practice, it involves bringing one's attention to the present moment experience of our thoughts, feelings, body, and environment in a gentle and non-judgmental way. You can develop this skill through yoga practice, meditation, martial arts, and other training.
Mindfulness takes many forms. I believe all self-care is an offshoot or form of mindfulness because it slows you down and is a form of presence.
Powers of Mindfulness:
Mindfulness isn't just about feeling zen. It’s about being aware, and eventually detaching yourself from judgment about your thoughts. Studies show it can have a profound impact on your well-being. Here are some benefits you might experience:
Mental Wellbeing: Reduce stress, enhance focus, improve memory, and increase emotional resilience.
Physical Health: Boost heart health, strengthen the immune system, and potentially slow down cell aging.
Emotional Regulation: Manage emotional reactivity, cultivate self-compassion,and become more aware of your inner workings.
Bringing Mindfulness into Your Day
There are many ways to integrate mindfulness into your daily routine. One simple practice is taking ten slow breaths, paying attention to the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. It's okay if your mind wanders – gently bring it back to your breath.
This short exercise below is offered by mindfulness expert Rachel Donaldson is a great starting point!
Rachel Donaldson, LMFT is a Mindfulness expert and protege of Brene Brown. You can learn more about her here.
About The Author
Gwen Yeager is an LA-based yoga and mind+body fitness expert who loves helping people deepen their practice in practical ways that work with real-life (she’s also a cancer survivor and mother of twins). She provides her students with resources to incorporate healthy movement, breathwork, and mindfulness into every nook and cranny of living. While her teaching style is down-to-earth and approachable — she’s a stickler about the science movement and proper anatomical alignment because nothing is more important than long-term mobility and a vibrant quality of life!
