Relax & Restore Through Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a gentle way of being present and seeing clearly what is happening in your life.

Being aware of what you are doing while you are doing it. Have you ever gone for a walk and realised at the end of it you were so completely consumed with your thoughts you never took in your surroundings, felt the wind on your cheek, smelled a scent on the breeze or acknowledged your limbs working to propel you forward?

How do you practice mindfulness?

Most mindfulness techniques start with the breath. They talk about awareness of the breath. When you are starting out it can be helpful to count the in and the out breath, or just repeat to yourself I’m breathing in, I’m breathing out. When your thoughts wander, (which they will) notice your thoughts but come back to awareness of your breath & your surroundings and what you are actually doing. When you are emotional, notice the emotion, acknowledge it and come back to the awareness of what you are doing.

Why practice mindfulness?

Mindfulness improves well being making it easier to savour the pleasures in life as they occur, helping you become fully engaged in activities. By focusing on the here and now, many people who practice mindfulness find that they are less likely to worry about the future or have regrets over the past and are better able to form deep connections with others.

What are the health benefits?

Mindfulness techniques help improve physical health in a number of ways including stress relief, lower blood pressure, reduction of chronic pain and improves sleep. Studies show that it can also relieve problems, including: depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples’ conflicts and anxiety disorders.

Here’s a quick video to help you get started

Being mindful and taking time out of your busy schedule is imperative to maintaining a healthy mind and body. Why not come along to Sophia’s Restorative Yoga Workshop this Sunday the 22nd November where you can put this into practice.