What is mindfulness? The oft repeated response to that question is that to be mindful means to be present. Well, what does that mean then? Simply put, to be mindful is to live in the moment, not reliving the past or worrying about the future. When we are mindful, we pay attention to what is happening in the here and now. That isnt all though. Mindfulness involves observing the present while suspending judgment. Most of us have a host of habitual reactions to our daily experiences, and many of them are negative and often self critical. If we are mindful, we are able to see things as they really are. If someone makes a seemingly critical comment about what we are wearing, do we immediately doubt ourselves or get angry at the other person? Why? Are they speaking the truth, or just their truth? Is it really even important? Mindfulness can be very therapeutic. We can dump an enormous amount of baggage that keeps us from experiencing and enjoying our lives. A good place to start experiencing mindfulness is in your yoga practice. Leave the world outside for that 60 - 90 minutes, and just focus on what is happening. Move or be still with intention. How does your body feel? What about your breathing? How do you feel emotionally? Outside thoughts will come to you. That is normal. Dont get frustrated. Acknowledge the thought and let it go. Just as your body improves with practice, so too does your mind. As you learn to be mindful in your yoga practice, you can begin to make it a part of your daily life. I would say that it may not be easy at first, but then easy is one of those judgmental terms we dont really need if we are being mindful. It will simply be as a function of you and your own individual practice. Namaste, friends!
Posted on: Thu, 06 Mar 2014 03:11:38 +0000
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