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    A Brief Guide to Mindfulness

      |  May 19, 2023

    Mental health can be just as important as physical health when it comes to living a long, meaningful life. However, it may take a backseat as daily stressors demand your attention. But it’s important to keep your mental and emotional well-being on your radar. In fact, experts say that the act of mindfulness can help minimize stress and anxiety and lead to a more fulfilling, happier life for those who practice it. Use this guide to gain a better understanding of mindfulness and how it translates to a healthier mind. 

    What Is Mindfulness?

    At any given moment, your mind may be racing with thoughts. Often, these thoughts have little to do with what you are actually doing at the moment. This distracts you and keeps you from being fully present in what you’re experiencing. 

    Practicing mindfulness can help clear your head and pull you back to the present moment. It allows you to immerse yourself in an experience rather than the thoughts that typically occupy your mind. Finding ways to practice mindfulness can help improve your work, relationships, and, ultimately, your health.

    What Is Mindfulness Meditation?

    The benefits of meditation are well-documented, yet so many individuals still find the practice of mindfulness meditation to be difficult as they strive to minimize stress and anxiety. 

    Mindfulness meditation can take practice, but its benefits are indisputable. To practice mindfulness meditation, try the following:

    • Start with three deep breaths, breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth.

    • Pay close attention to your body’s sensations.

    • Observe your breath’s natural rhythm.

    • Bring your thoughts back to your breath if your mind begins to wander.

    Repeat these steps as necessary for a period of 10 minutes to practice mindfulness meditation.

    What Is Mindfulness Practice?

    So, what is mindfulness practice? Practicing mindfulness is one way to improve your mental health, but its benefits extend beyond the brain. In fact, practicing mindfulness can help lower your stress levels and in turn reduce inflammation in the body and your risk of various ailments. From relieving depression and anxiety to lowering blood pressure and improving sleep, there are a variety of reasons to practice mindfulness.

    Learning how to practice mindfulness can take time, effort, and concentration. But there are plenty of things you can do to incorporate it throughout the day. These include: 

    • Stretching: Performing stretching and breathing exercises first thing in the morning can both energize and center you. 

    • Hydrating: Drinking water at breakfast and throughout the day will keep your energy levels up and your mind in the present.

    • Planning: A miles-long to-do list may throw you off track. Instead, write down your top three priorities for the day. This will cut down on distractions and help you focus on tasks ahead. 

    Pairing mindfulness practices with other methods of anxiety and stress relief, such as Neurofeedback Therapy and IV drips for stress, can be even more effective than using one method alone.

    Asking, “What is mindfulness?” was your first step toward a clearer, more present mind. Once you learn how to practice mindfulness throughout the day, you’ll recognize the benefits in many facets of your life.

    For additional support on your mindfulness journey, book a free consultation with a Modern Age clinician to learn more about our cognitive health treatment options.