Mindfulness your secret to a lighter life

Do you ever feel like life is moving too fast? One minute you are gulping down coffee , the next you are in bed replaying the day and wondering where the hours went. You are not alone. Many of us live on autopilot - overwhelmed, distracted and missing out on the little joys.

The solution could be mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t about sitting cross-legged for hours (unless you want to!). It’s about paying attention to the present moment, and only the present moment. You can do it pretty much anytime and anywhere, and it’s free!

When we slow our mind down just enough to pay attention to exactly what you are experiencing, we can experience some powerful benefits. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and decision making and help you enjoy life more deeply.

Here is one way you can start today:

For this mindfulness exercise you do not need to stop what you doing physically. Take a couple of deep breaths. While you are learning, it will be helpful to speak out loud, but once you have practiced mindfulness for a while, you might be able to say them in your head.

Name 5 things you see

Name 4 things you touch/can feel physically

Name 3 things you hear

Name 2 things you smell

Name 1 thing you taste

Did you notice anything new that you were not aware of before you did this exercise? Maybe it was a flower, or a tightness in your back. You can take a few seconds to appreciate the beauty or stretch your body.

And then carry on with your day!

Life isn’t about just getting through the day, its about living it. Mindfulness helps you reclaim those small, beautiful moments that add up to a richer life.