What is Mindfulness? 


 According to https://www.mindful.org/what-is-mindfulness/ - "Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us."

When you practice mindfulness there are many things to be gained from it. Among them is better focus, improved stress management, enhanced communication, increased empathy, and you are better able to regulate your emotions. So how do we practice mindfulness? There are a number of things we can do to be more mindful: 

  • Meditate – A quieting of your self and your mind. This does not have to be a long drawn out practice. It can be as short as a one minute meditation on a break at work.
  • Yoga – This is an ancient spiritual practice that incorporates body positions, breath control and meditation.
  • Tai Chi – Another ancient practice that may be easier for those who are no longer as flexible as they used to be. It is from the Chinese tradition that is known more for it’s peaceful properties than its martial art defense techniques.
  • Qi Gong – Again out of the Chinese tradition is this system of gentle exercise that promotes healing through body postures, controlled breathing and meditation.
  • Pilates – This system is a more modern version and utilizes controlled movements and breathing. It strengthens the core and improves the participant’s flexibility.
  • Breath Work: This technique utilizes the breath to induce relaxation.
  • The Mindful Life Stress Reduction Session – These sessions are given to you. That alone makes them different from all the others. 
 The sessions activates your body’s own Qi or energy system through a gentle touch technique and also taps into the power of your own breath to take you into a meditative state of higher consciousness faster and helps you to move forward more quickly in your life. No matter which practice you decide to utilize, there is something to be gained. Studies have been done to verify the benefits of these practices. Some of those studies were done right here in Madison, WI at the university. These practices can lower heart rate; improve circulation, decrease anxiety and increase feelings of wellbeing. Take the time to investigate all these mindful practices and then consider adding one or more into your life.