Mindful living conceptualizes always being in the present. In this engaging world, it is getting increasingly difficult to stay present. Learn about this today
Don’t get disturbed by the images you have been seeing. To practise mindful living, you don’t have to go into the sun or set course for the Atlantic.
You don’t need to dry yourself in the sun like a tree that needs to grow or the Avatar that wants to commune with the spirits.
All you need is yourself, a place to meditate, and zero distractions. You can practise it even in your room.
Let’s dive into Mindful living proper now.
The practice of mindful living is deeply rooted in self-awareness and mindfulness. It was derived from Buddhist teachings. From that time till now, the practice has gained popularity.
How often do you find yourself lost in thoughts and unable to keep a clear head? It happens to me more often than normal these days.
As I’m writing to you, there’s this lady that just passed by me with the s3xiest…(damn, I’m sorry, back to work)
With mindful living, you would develop an increased sense of awareness. Through mindful living, you would foster an attitude of acceptance and non-judgment, and engage in intentional actions that promote well-being and fulfillment.
Just yesterday night, I wrote an extensive article on Yoga meditation. They are related. With Yoga meditation, one can practise mindful living.
Read Up Here: Yoga Meditation: See 10 Advantages and Disadvantages
All in all, the key idea behind mindful living is racing a present-conscious generation. A people that won’t drown in the unpredictability of the future but will use their present to foster a better future.
Let’s take a look at some key components of Mindful living.
Key Components Of Mindful Living
There are three main components of Mindful living.
1. Awareness
This is the most important part of this exercise. It demands that you 101%% aware of everything around you, both inside and outside.
It involves observing thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings with curiosity and openness.
Awareness is not partial. It is the basis of mindful living and should be treated seriously.
2. Acceptance
How many of you are always focused on changing situations around you? You feel your present isn’t as you predicted and here you are on an endless pursuit for change.
Practising mindful living eliminates that mindset first of al. It teaches us to accept the present no matter how bad it seems. Don’t try to change or fix anything, Just accept.
For real, just take things easy on yourself. Your present would never be up to taste. You must accept this fact without resistance.
Do not try to suppress your emotions also. Individuals must practice accepting them as they are.
3. Non-Judgement
Instead of labeling experiences as good or bad, individuals must learn to observe them with curiosity and compassion.
Mindfulness encourages non-judgmental observation. This approach helps to reduce the tendency to criticize oneself or others.
These key components help to keep you in the scope of exercise. When you maintain them, you are sure to enjoy the benefits mindful living provides.
10 Practical Applications Of Mindful Living
What are practical ways you can practice mindful living? These steps would help you incorporate mindful living into your day-to-day activities.
1. Mindful Breathing
This is one of the easiest but most powerful mindful living practices. People barely pay enough attention to their breath. Take a second and notice as each breath leaves your nostrils.
Done?
When you pay enough attention to your breath, you can be able to notice little changes in your body or emotions and stabilize yourself. You could also cultivate a sense of calmness within you.
2. Body Scan Meditation
Body scan meditation involves systematically directing attention to different parts of the body, noticing any sensations present without judgment.
This practice helps individuals develop greater awareness of bodily sensations and promotes relaxation.
3. Mindful Eating
Yes, I said it. Mindful Eating.
Eating mindfully involves paying attention to whatever goes into your mouth. Check out the taste, texture, and aroma of food.
When you enjoy each bite, you will develop a healthier relationship with food and grow gratitude for nourishment. Yummy, uhn?
4. Mindful Movement
Practices such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong incorporate mindfulness into physical movement.
By synchronizing breath with movement and maintaining present-moment awareness, individuals can enhance both physical and mental well-being.
5. Start with mindfulness meditation
Take some time each day to sit quietly, focus on your breath, and observe your thoughts without judgment.
It’s a great way to build a foundation for mindfulness.
6. Engage fully in daily activities
Whether you’re eating, walking, or doing chores, try to be fully present. Notice the sensations, sights, sounds, and smells associated with the task.
7. Cultivate awareness of your thoughts and emotions
Notice when your mind wanders or when difficult emotions arise. Observe them with curiosity and compassion.
8. Connect With Nature
Nature is all around us. Yet, it is so easy to forget all its benefits. When you watch the simple things such as trees moving rhythmically to the wind or birds communicating in a lovable melody, you will be more present.
9. Practice gratitude
Gratitude should be a lifestyle, an attitude, or even a culture. Make time each day to reflect on the good parts of life.
There’s none?
Well, the mere fact that you are alive is a reason for gratitude. I sound like those pastors right now.
Gratitude cultivates a positive outlook for the day, month, year, and even rest of your life.
Lastly,
10. Limit Distractions
In mindful living, multitasking is not a choice. Focus on one thing at a time. Don’t work and leave your phone notifications on.
Keep distractions minimal to zero.
These ten applications are possible ways you can incorporate mindful living into your schedule.
Related: Acupuncture: Everything You Need To Know
Pros and Cons Of Mindful Living
Mindful living has numerous benefits, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- Reduced Stress: Mindfulness practices can help lower stress levels and promote a sense of calmness.
- Improved Mental Health: Mindfulness is associated with better mental health outcomes, including decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Enhanced Focus: Regular mindfulness practice can improve attention and concentration.
- Increased Self-Awareness: Mindfulness cultivates self-awareness and a deeper understanding of oneself.
- Better Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness helps manage difficult emotions by teaching observation and acceptance.
- Improved Relationships: Mindful communication fosters better interpersonal relationships.
- Enhanced Physical Health: Mindfulness may have positive effects on physical health, such as lowering blood pressure.
Cons
- Time Commitment: Consistent practice may be challenging to maintain.
- Initial Discomfort: Mindfulness practices can initially evoke discomfort or resistance.
- Patience and Persistence: Progress may be slow, requiring patience and persistence.
- Emotional Intensity: Mindfulness may bring up difficult emotions or experiences.
- Misunderstanding or Misinterpretation: Without proper guidance, mindfulness concepts may be misunderstood.
- Potential for Overwhelming: Mindfulness can sometimes feel overwhelming if not approached with balance.
Most importantly, the benefits of mindful living can outweigh the challenges, but it’s important to approach it with patience and self-compassion.
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Any Last Words?
Yes, Yes, I have something to say.
Think about how much wrongs have taken place because you refuse to live in the present. Ruminate on how much fun you miss because of constant planning.
This is no conclusion, it’s an admonition. From this post, demand from yourself to practice the art of mindful living.
You will not regret it.
