Published 03/03/2022
by Victoria Bottomley
The way we think, and what we think about, can affect how we feel and act. For example, if you think or worry a lot about upsetting things, you might often feel sad or anxious.
Mindfulness aims to help you become more self-aware, feel calmer and less stressed, feel more able to choose how to respond to your thoughts and feelings, cope with difficult or unhelpful thoughts, and be kinder towards yourself.
Mindfulness is a type of meditation in which you focus on being aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgement. Most of us have issues that we find hard to let go of, and mindfulness can help us deal with them more productively. Studies show that practising mindfulness can help to manage common mental health problems like depression, anxiety and feelings of stress.
Find time to focus on these small things each day to be more mindful:
- Be grateful. Think about the positive things in your life and really give them the focus they deserve. By focusing on the positive we then become more available to create a more positive future and move away from negative thoughts.
- Listen to your senses. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, put your full attention there and observe it through your five senses for a few moments to practice bringing your mind to the present moment.
- Pay attention to your body. What do you notice? Do you feel any aches or pains? Are you feeling tension anywhere? Practice self care and respond to what your body is telling you.
There are many other ways to practise mindfulness in your every day life and lots of resources online to help. The NHS have information and tips for using mindfulness on their website here:
nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/mindfulness/
