What does it mean to ‘live mindfully’?
For starters what does it mean to ‘live mindfully’? In order to ‘live mindfully’, we must learn to live in the ‘moment’. The human brain is a very complex organ that controls memory, thought, emotion, vision, breathing, hunger and movement. It’s very common for us to think in the past and the future, but it also not healthy if we are constantly worried or concerned about it. After all we, cannot control the past or what the future will hold for us. We can learn from our past mistakes or choices; however we can take positive steps in the present moment that may lead to success in the future. The bottom line, we can’t always control this natural pattern of thinking. There are several activities that one can do daily in order to begin living in the ‘now’.
These activities may involve use of some or all the 5 Senses:
Sight. Sound. Smell. Taste. Touch
One activity that is commonly practiced regularly, is HAVING A SHOWER. When doing so be mindful of the pleasure as the warm water washes over you, mindful of the sound of the streaming water, mindful of the smell of the shower soap, gel, or shampoo.
Children have the natural tendency to live in the ‘moment’. Have you ever observed how a child discovers and learns? They learn by using their senses. For example, they may pick a flower and immediately smell it, place in the mouth, or feel the texture. This natural curiosity allows them to be present. During our busy adult lives we struggle to ‘stop and smell the roses’, due to stress, money worries, smartphone distractions or trying to take ‘the perfect picture’. Doing daily mindful activities has been proven to be effective in lowering stress and anxiety.