Stress is an inevitable consequence of modern living. Constantly-connected devices, demanding career goals, and financial pressures all contribute to a life filled with stress and worry. But did you know that practicing mindfulness provides a natural and effective remedy to reduce stress?
For those of us wanting to increase our resilience to stress, it is important to develop a deeper understanding of what mindfulness is. In essence, mindfulness is the ability to bring increased awareness and conscious attention to the present moment. It is cultivating a “clear seeing” perspective on the truth of your experience (sensations, thoughts, and emotions) in order to have a more balanced and harmonious relationship with life.
Our minds are constantly bombarded with what we have to do, what has already happened, and what might occur next; therefore, mindfulness is focused on slowing down and bringing our attention to our current reality.
In a time where we’re more connected than ever through technology, stress and anxiety are unavoidable symptoms of our modern day lives. Good news though: a potential solution may be within us. Mindfulness has been on the rise for years with studies from top universities consistently noting its efficacy in the reduction of stress.
According to Carnegie Mellon University, those that practice mindfulness at least thirty minutes each day are significantly better prepared to handle work-related stress than those who don’t. The National Institutes of Health also shows how mindfulness can be used to help regulate emotions, banish intrusive thoughts, and reduce stress.
So how can you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine? We offer you some simple techniques to help get you started:
01. Take a few moments throughout your day to focus on your breath.
02. As often as you can, take five minutes out of every hour to take a few deep breaths or simply stretch your body.
03. Whenever possible, reduce technology in your living and working spaces.
04. Start a journal, and take time each day to reflect and record your thoughts and emotions, especially when you start feeling overwhelmed.
There are many small changes you can make to incorporate mindfulness into your life. Focus on small shifts that are within your means and help lower your stress levels. Mindfulness has been made popular recently. However, its roots stretch back thousands of years. With an eye towards its long-standing traditions, along with modern scientific studies, you can unlock the peace, harmony, and success that mindfulness has to offer. Give it a try and start creating more ease, rest, and balance in your day.
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