When we think of mindfulness it can often be overwhelming. “What is it? How do I do it? I don’t have the time.” Like many things in today’s society, there is a misconception that we must go all-in to achieve anything. The hustle culture has made its way into even the most unsuspecting of activities. As mindfulness meditation becomes something of a trend we are losing a sense of its true meaning.
Mindfulness is not an exercise fad, a diet, or a Tik Tok phenomenon, it is living in the present moment. The more you practice mindfulness, the more you realise, it is simply a way of being.
What Is Mindfulness Meditation?
Being mindful helps us to slow down and be aware of the present moment. It provides space for the mind to wander and to process anything that might need some reflection, something that is blocked if we are too busy. It allows us to appreciate what we are doing instead of rushing to the next thing. A feeling of dissatisfaction in life can be linked to difficulties in being in the now.
Being mindful can help us de-stress. It is why psychotherapy is so successful; it provides you with the space you need to work through what has you stuck. Giving yourself this time and working through your issues instead of suppressing them, can do wonders for your mental health and wellbeing.
What Are The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation?
As humans, we were never wired to receive the amount of information we do now. Mindfulness was part and parcel of our day, we didn’t have to think about it. Now, as stress levels rise with the expectations thrust upon us by today’s economy, we have lost a skill that was once taken for granted.
If we set aside the time needed to be mindful we would discover it doesn’t require much effort. You can be mindful at absolutely any time and for however long you can maintain awareness of yourself. You do not need a meditation cushion, incense, chakra alignment, or calming music to be mindful. It is a habit like brushing your teeth. There are many benefits of mindfulness, one being, that it can be done at any time, any where.
How Does Mindfulness Differ From Meditation?
A broad distinction between the two is that mindfulness involves paying attention to something as you are doing it, whereas meditation involves paying attention to the process of your own mind, typically while being still. Often, when we are asked how to do mindfulness meditation, it is with the preconception that you must be a calm and spiritually-minded person.This is just the hype that we’ve seen on TV and read in books. As long as you’re willing, you can practice mindfulness.
It may sound difficult at first but like anything, the more you practice the easier it becomes. One of our most popular classes at Alex Delogu is Tai Chi. This practice is centred around mindfulness, combining movement with the power of thought. A perfect exercise to satisfy the minds of those who dread to sit still for even two minutes.
Have any questions? Just get in touch.