Mindfulness seems to be a mental health buzzword at the moment, but what exactly is it and how could it benefit you?
Mindfulness is quite simply paying more attention to the present moment – being aware of yourself and your surroundings. Seem simple enough? Not quite. The reality is we all live very busy lives so our brains are constantly on the go, thinking about the next item on our never ending ‘to-do’ list.
To achieve mindfulness you need to make all of this stop…at least for a moment. Really concentrate on your thoughts, feelings and the world around you at one moment in time. Doing this can really help your mental wellbeing.
So how do you do it?
Well, glad you asked. We’ve scoured the internet and come up with our VÄRLDEN top picks designed to help you reach mindfulness nirvana.
1. Notice the now
Every waking minute our senses are bombarded – so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Take time to notice what you can see, hear, smell, feel and taste, and how this makes you feel. Using your senses will give you a deeper appreciation of the present.
2. Pay attention to your thoughts
Some people find it really hard to clear their mind. As soon as they stop their thought, another one grabs them by the hand and takes them on a hike. The secret is to notice the thought, acknowledge it – shake its hand even, but then let it go.
Some people find it really hard to clear their mind. As soon as they stop their thought, another one grabs them by the hand and takes them on a hike. The secret is to notice the thought, acknowledge it – shake its hand even, but then let it go.
3. Try gentle exercise
Light exercise such as Yoga or T’ai chi, has been linked to reducing stress and helping clear the mind. These exercises aren’t too strenuous on the body either – some say they’re even relaxing.
Light exercise such as Yoga or T’ai chi, has been linked to reducing stress and helping clear the mind. These exercises aren’t too strenuous on the body either – some say they’re even relaxing.
4. Breathe
Yes, it’s that easy. Take a minute, close your eyes and focus on your breath flowing in…and out. And in…and out. Get the gist? Focusing on your breathing is a sure fire way of decluttering your brain.
5. Get back to nature
Is there anything better than the great outdoors? We don’t think so. Getting back to nature and connecting with the earth is a great way to appreciate the world and take a mental time out for yourself.
Yes, it’s that easy. Take a minute, close your eyes and focus on your breath flowing in…and out. And in…and out. Get the gist? Focusing on your breathing is a sure fire way of decluttering your brain.
5. Get back to nature
Is there anything better than the great outdoors? We don’t think so. Getting back to nature and connecting with the earth is a great way to appreciate the world and take a mental time out for yourself.