Mindfulness and Meditation

When you hear the word mindfulness, what comes to mind? Perhaps the term conjures up a notion of introspection, reflection, and stillness. Or perhaps you think of respect – for yourself, your experience of the world, and of others. In fact, mindfulness embodies all of these things. It’s a state, a practice, and more recently an important therapeutic method. Mindfulness is about being open to your thoughts, emotions, and actions in the present moment – without judgement and with full acceptance.

Mindfulness is being used more and more by therapists, life coaches, and health wellness community to help individuals overcome pain, trauma, emotional struggles, and behavioral issues. In my practice at Soul Growth Counseling , I incorporate mindfulness into much of my therapy. I’ve seen some wonderful outcomes from engaging clients in therapeutic mindfulness, including overcoming anxiety, relieving depression, and pushing aside negative self-talk.  

Meditation and Mindfulness 

One of my favourite techniques is to use meditation to facilitate and grow mindfulness. If you’re new to meditation, at its basic it means a slowing of the mind to develop and encourage clarity, positive thoughts, and concentration.

The effects of meditation on the mind, body, and soul can be significant. Meditation can:

·       decrease anxiety, stress, and depression,

·       improve emotional stability,

·       make problems seem smaller,

·       improve the body’s immunity, and

·       decrease pain and inflammation. 

Mindfulness meditation recognizes the benefits of meditation and uses its techniques to foster and develop a sense of mindfulness. It is a way of meditating that helps us learn to become unconditionally present and more non-judgmental about whatever life throws at us.

Are you convinced? If so, let’s talk about how you can practice mindfulness meditation.

How to practice mindfulness meditation at home

Mindfulness meditation is easy, accessible, and can have a big impact on your overall well being. Here are some tips on how to find your place of tranquility:

1.     The first step in mindfulness meditation is to set up your space so that your body is relaxed. Find a pillow that you can comfortably sit on.

2.     Sit upright with your legs crossed. Soften your gaze and look ahead, without fixating on any particular item. Place your hands face down on your thighs. 

3.     Turn your attention to your breath. Focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. Notice your thoughts as they come up, without judgement and without attaching to them. Let them go and keep breathing. The goal isn’t to try to stop thinking, it’s to accept your thoughts, to be present with yourself, and to let go of preconceived notions of how we ought to think or be.

If mindfulness and meditation is something that interests you, contact me today to discuss how you can benefit from adding it into your life.

And, to learn about out other ways you can practice mindfulness at home, check out my blog post called 10 Ways to Practice Mindfulness at Home.

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