Mindfulness - it’s become somewhat of a buzzword in our modern times. Because of all the stressors in our lives, because we’ve become busier than any generation before us, we need something to center us. We need grounding to eliminate anxiety.
A recent study by Michigan Tech showed surprising results. At a recent conference, two graduate students offered a 60 minute mindfulness meditation to 14 attendees as a part of their research. After the 60 minutes, all participants showed lower resting heart rates and a reduction in blood pressure. They also reported lower levels of anxiety.
The conclusion was that even a single hour of mindfulness meditation can be beneficial for everyone. Of course, that needs more studying and analysis. But it’s hard to argue with the results.
Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present and aware. It means focusing on the now, instead of letting your mind wander to things you need to do, or things that are impacting you from your past. It’s about not being reactive or overwhelmed by things happening around you that are out of your control.
Before you learn more about putting it into your daily life, it’s important to realize what mindfulness isn’t.
You don’t need to change to allow mindfulness into your life. It isn’t something you learn or a new habit you need to create.
It’s not something special you need to add. We’re already present; we just need to learn to appreciate more about the now and worry less about things outside of our control.
It has the potential to change lives. It’s a way of living, not something you have to practice. It’s a way to focus on the good and let the anxiety slip away.
You can use mindfulness meditation anywhere, anytime.
When you sit, be conscious of how you’re sitting. Sit straight, but not stiff. Relax your arms and legs while being fully aware of your comfort. Relax. Breathe. Focus on your breath in and out.
You can perform the same ritual standing. A few deep breaths in and out can help the stressors melt away.
If you have the chance to walk and practice mindfulness, focus on the beauty around you. Listen to the birds. Watch the sky. Take note of the changes of the seasons.
Five minutes is all you need. If you learn to do this regularly, you’ll feel the difference.