We hear a lot about “mindfulness” these days, but what is it really and can it help us with our health, fitness, and our overall wellbeing? As defined by various sources, mindfulness is said to be the following:
“Bringing one’s complete attention to the present experience on a moment-to-moment basis.” (Marlatt & Kristeller)
“Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally” (Kabat-Zinn).
“Consciously bringing awareness to your here-and-now experience, with openness, interest and receptiveness.” (The Happiness Trap)
Mindfulness is now being examined scientifically and has been found to be a key element in happiness. Being “mindful” shifts our perspective to having more awareness about where we are in the moment as opposed to where we need, or want, to be. This shift can help in life’s everyday activities like finding a parking space, sitting in traffic, dealing with an issue in the workplace, and even including how we eat and exercise.
Engaging both the mind and body will enhance emotional, mental and physical awareness; all three elements must come together and find order for us to feel enthusiastic and focused about what we’re trying to achieve. So, there really is more to these old clichés than we think: “Attitude is everything” and “the mind feeds the body.”
So, what are some ways to be mindful contributing to better health, wellbeing, and happiness?
- Focus on the present: Being mindful of the present brings a heightened awareness of where we are, what we’re thinking, and what we’re doing. Notice what you are doing as you are doing it and tune into your senses. When you are eating, notice the colour, texture and taste of the food. If you’re focused on the immediate we can ensure that our thoughts and behavior are positive.
- Self-reflection: Being focused on the present allows us to compare our current thoughts and behaviors to past thoughts and behaviors helping facilitate greater change for the better.
- Be grateful: Focus on five things you are thankful for each day. Keep a journal. Studies have shown improvement in overall health and wellbeing.
- Breathe and be: Don’t feel that you need to fill up all your time with doing. Allow thoughts to come and go without judgment. Take some time breathe and to simply be.
- Stay with it. At times, this process may not seem relaxing at all, but over time it provides a key to greater happiness and self-awareness as you become comfortable with a wider and wider range of your experiences.
Practicing the tips above will not only help how you view and approach your nutrition and/or fitness goals, it will positively contribute to your overall wellbeing.
