Every moment in our life is an opportunity to be mindful and yet many of us forget to simply observe our thoughts and emotions. Instead, we often react to our thoughts and emotions and create additional stress for ourselves and others. Furthermore, this reactive way of living can sometimes lead to chronic pain (emotional, mental and/or physical). Interestingly, research shows that being mindful can reduce present-moment pain, a negative body image, inhibition of activity from pain, and mood disturbances, including anxiety and depression. As well, mindfulness can increase activity levels and feelings of self-esteem. So, it’s a win-win situation….you feel bad less often and feel better more! How does one incorporate mindfulness into daily life? Here are a few action tips to consider: Action Tips: 1. Be mindful when you eat- Slow down, chew your food and enjoy each savoury bite! Watch the tendency to eat “on the go” or while you’re multitasking (like working on the computer). Observe the thoughts that say “hurry up” because you have to get on with your day. There is nothing to do with these thoughts, simply watch them 2. Be mindful when you work- Whether you are at home or work, the mind always has a “to-do” list. So, watch the thoughts that make you feel that you HAVE to get it all done today. The mind always finds something to do, that is what the mind does. Having a list is important but know that you can choose to breathe easily through it all without stress. The in-box is always full, just accept it and cross things off your list peacefully because even if you run out of things “to-do”, it’s guaranteed that the mind will come up with more. 3. Be mindful when you play- Are you present when you’re being active or are there 1,000 things on your mind? Watch your thoughts and don’t let them reduce the quality of your play time. Pay attention to your breathing and you will find that those thoughts will simply dissolve and your play time will be more enjoyable. Source: Kabat-Zinn, J., Lipworth, L. and Burney, R. The clinical use of mindfulness meditation for the self-regulation of chronic pain. J. Behav. Med. (1985) 8:163-190.
Posted on: Tue, 24 Sep 2013 22:01:15 +0000
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