What Is Mindfulness?
I clearly remember my first stay in a Buddhist monastery. Regardless whether you're doing a meditation retreat or you're a guest in a spiritual community, you'll probably be encouraged to be mindful throughout the day. So, how's it done?
The first instructions I ever received on mindfulness were given during a meditation retreat in Thailand. Generally speaking, the easier the instructions the better we understand the practice and the more we can benefit from it. They said, "Be aware of every step, every movement, every bite - be aware of everything you do."
The first instructions I ever received on mindfulness were given during a meditation retreat in Thailand. Generally speaking, the easier the instructions the better we understand the practice and the more we can benefit from it. They said, "Be aware of every step, every movement, every bite - be aware of everything you do."
"Slowing down makes it easier to be mindful"
To be mindful is to be aware of the present moment. So, we're said to be mindful whenever we pay close attention to what we're doing. Mindfulness is as soothing for the mind as it's simple.
Let your body and mind relax while paying attention to what you're doing. Don't try too hard, which would only make your body and mind tense - let the awareness flow naturally. Mindfulness at its best, is relaxed awareness of the present moment.
Only practice for about 10-15 minutes each time in the beginning and take a break whenever you sense the mind is becoming sluggish. With practice, you'll be able to be mindful for hours with minimal effort. Practice makes perfect...
Best of luck!
Let your body and mind relax while paying attention to what you're doing. Don't try too hard, which would only make your body and mind tense - let the awareness flow naturally. Mindfulness at its best, is relaxed awareness of the present moment.
Only practice for about 10-15 minutes each time in the beginning and take a break whenever you sense the mind is becoming sluggish. With practice, you'll be able to be mindful for hours with minimal effort. Practice makes perfect...
Best of luck!