So what is Mindfulness
An internet version goes something like this…
…”Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.“
or
“Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment, through a gentle, nurturing lens.”
but the next line is closer to the way I see it…
“Mindfulness also involves acceptance, meaning that we pay attention to our thoughts and feelings without judging them—without believing, for instance, that there’s a “right” or “wrong” way to think or feel in a given moment. When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.”
Well ok then…
A formal way to practice clearing the mind and find full (as possible) relaxation, is by learning to be in the now.
Even a few seconds respite from the inner critic is invaluable.
Mindful Movement
An efficient way to clear your mind from stress and worry is to do some exercise and put your entire being into it.
While you are concentrating on form, technique and effort your ‘worry’ brain (most often) gets a wee break.
It is why I personally advise people to start a martial art. Learning new movements and trying to do what the instructor says while trying to do what everyone else is doing can relieve stress by just putting it aside for a short while.
Just concentrating on breathing and movement CAN CHANGE YOUR WORLD.
Your meditation doesn’t have to be stillness…Qi Gung is often called moving meditation.
This is a similar version to what we teach.
5 element Qi Gung is an ancient breathing exercise, recorded in text up to 1500yrs ago.
Meditation
Just 1 min of sitting, relaxing and breathing (concentrating on breathing) is enough to kick off a habit of mindfulness.
2 – 3 – 5 – 10 minutes a few times a week is enough.
We older folk were bought up with Zen meditation – the totally empty your mind sort. This is very difficult, achievable, but difficult.
These days there are better systems without the ‘spiritual/religious’ component.
Here is a simple 9min Sam Harris mindfulness meditation.
Conclusion
Mindfulness is a new word for very old practices.
Clear your mind and if ‘thoughts’ impinge….acknowledge them and move on.
Concentrate on breath.
If all this is too difficult, try learning a Qi Gung.
Qi Gung balances muscle, tendon and collateral links. You may be taught to use colours and sounds to help with the concentration.
It doesn’t matter what sort of mindfulness you use!!!
Just try something….its a beautiful thing.
