Mindfulness

Mindfulness is something of a buzz-word of late; and I don’t mind jumping on the band wagon!

 The practice is employed by various individuals and groups including Buddhists, and this is where I had my first exposure. I’m not Buddhist, but my wife is, and I’ve seen the powerful influence it has on her in her every-day life. Essentially, the idea is to be focused on the here-and-now, to the exclusion of thoughts which hamper your ability to stay in the moment. It is not only about releasing the “baggage” of yesterday, the energy wasted on the future (particularly negative thoughts), and the superfluous. It is also about being aware of your surroundings, your actions, your reactions, your thoughts, your feelings and your bodily sensations.

You need only search the word on the internet to see the plethora of materials available on this topic – from information pages and blogs, to practical courses, workshops, books and applications for your phone or tablet.

Studies have found plenty of evidence that the practicing of Mindfulness can have significant benefits for mental and physical wellbeing; but it’s also used as psycho-therapy for depression, anxiety, stress and even drug addiction.

Now, I’m by no means a new-age guy - I love a drink, the footy and meat-laden barbecue. But I have been surprised by the energy and focus I‘ve been able to gain from setting aside minimal time at various stages of the day or week to retreat into quiet self-awareness. I'll also put my hand up: I find it difficult to complete many of the exercises Mindfulness practitioners recommend, such as five to ten minutes of focused breathing. These practices almost always seem easy, but do require practice and perseverance – it’s so easy to let your mind wander onto a worry, a deadline...or your next meal. But even if successful for three or four minutes, I’ve found the focus and clarity it gives me is often surprising, and can last for several hours.

One particular joy I’ve found using the practice is to engage in "mindful tasting". I try to remember to savour every taste of my Three Squares, to identify all the flavours and textures of my meal. Not only do I enjoy my food far more, but I find I need to eat less. Most importantly, I gain more appreciation from the awareness of this gift I’d previously paid almost no attention to!

I’ll finish by saying I was a sceptic, but now feel the incorporation of Mindfulness into my life is allowing me to see benefits I’d never have thought or expected. I really recommend giving it a go. As part of a holistic approach to your wellbeing, I'm sure you'll benefit as I am!