Master the art of mindfulness: Here's how
What's the story
Embarking on a wellness journey can prove to be exciting as well as challenging.
For starters, incorporating mindfulness habits into your daily routines can greatly enhance your well-being, and sharpen your mental clarity.
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment, which can further help you reduce stress, and improve your focus.
Here are five basic mindfulness habits beginners can adopt to ace their wellness journey.
Breathing focus
Start with deep breathing exercises
Deep breathing exercises are a simple but powerful way to start practicing mindfulness.
By focusing on your breath, you can calm your mind, reduce anxiety.
Spend a few minutes daily inhaling deeply through your nose, holding the breath for a few seconds, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth.
This practice helps in centering thoughts, bringing awareness to the present moment.
Gratitude habit
Practice gratitude daily
Incorporating gratitude into your daily life is one of the most effective mindfulness habits that breeds positivity.
Every day, take some time out to think about three things you are grateful for.
This practice diverts focus from negative thoughts to positive ones, lifting your mood and outlook on life.
Writing these down in a journal can further solidify this habit.
Eating awareness
Engage in mindful eating
Mindful eating entails paying full attention to the experience of eating without distractions like television, smartphones, etc.
Focus on the taste, texture, and aroma of every bite while chewing slowly.
The practice not only improves digestion, but also helps in recognizing hunger cues more accurately, promoting healthier eating habits.
Meditation routine
Set aside time for meditation
Meditation is the crux of mindfulness practices that helps in attaining mental clarity and emotional stability.
Beginners should ideally start with short sessions of five to ten minutes a day, increasing them gradually as they become comfortable with the practice.
Find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed, sit comfortably, close your eyes and focus on your breathing or use guided meditation apps if needed.
Walking awareness
Incorporate mindful walking into your day
Mindful walking is a great way to marry movement with mindfulness practices.
As you walk at a comfortable pace, notice each step's sensation—how your feet feel against the ground—and observe surrounding sounds or sights without judgment or distraction from devices like phones or music players during this time outdoors (whenever possible) for added benefits from nature's calming effects.