MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. We spend so much time planning or worrying about the future and regretting the past that we often forget to appreciate the present. Mindfulness allows you to learn to live in the here and now, rather than the past or future. You can be mindful anytime; while you are eating, walking, cooking, cleaning, making love, driving so on.

Mindful walking is a wonderful way to practice mindfulness. To do a mindful walk, go outdoors and walk slowly, fully experiencing the sensations of walking one step at a time. While you walk, let your senses take over. Smell the aroma of grass and trees; notice the houses you pass and the people you see; really listen to the sounds of birds chirping, dogs barking. If you walk in the city be aware of the sounds of cars and buses, the smell of restaurants and the faces of the people you see. Try to stay present. When other thoughts enter your mind, gently acknowledge them and the n let them go as you bring yourself back t o the present moment. After the walk try to carry that mindfulness with you for the rest of the day.