Do you ever find yourself driving with no recollection of how you arrived at your destination? Or going through the motions of listening – while not paying attention at all? Or watching TV, while checking Facebook on your phone? I’m guilty of all of the above.

Since 2020, our Mindfulness and Meditation and Mindfulness and Healing retreats continue to be our most sought after. The pace of our lives is increasingly hectic and new stresses await us around every corner. Now more than ever it's time to slow down the frantic pace, tap into the present moment and let go of the constant anxiety.

The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it. ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

I admit, I have struggled with being mindful. Instead of taking time to pause and acknowledge the present moment I just keep thinking to myself, “I’m too busy! I don’t have time to be mindful.” I don’t want to miss a single thing – a beautiful sunset; the joy of moving my body in yoga; savoring my first cup of coffee; enjoying conversations, laughter, tears and hugs with friends and family.

Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a superpower that allows us to heal, enjoy peace and experience true joy. I believe it is the key to contentment. The more busy we become the more we must try to be intentional about being mindful. That way we can enjoy all the benefits of mindfulness:

• Deepen close relationships.
• Discover connection to others.
• Through self reflection, find self love.
• Experience joy and gratitude.
• Discover gratitude in the small things.

Ways to Be Mindful Every Day

Mindfulness, like yoga and meditation, is a practice. Living mindfully in the present, without longing for the past or worrying about the future, allows us to find peace. Try incorporating one of the following mindfulness practices into your daily routine, and experiment to discover what works best for you:

• Begin your day with deep breathing, stretching or moving.
• Set an intention at the beginning of the day.
• Have a to do list - to avoid mindlessly wandering from one task to another.
• Do one thing at a time - driving, eating, drinking, talking on the phone.
• Go outside, be fully aware of sights and sounds around you.
• Have a conversation with a loved one - focus on listening and not multi-tasking
• Limit social media.
• Put your phone away - out of sight.
• Journal.
• Get a good night’s sleep.

I believe a crucial first step in becoming more mindful and less mindless, is to lessen your dependence on your phone. I get it your whole life is on your phone, but studies continue to show our phone habits are toxic and can cause undue stress, memory issues and mental health struggles. Here's help on breaking the habit.

And remember, this moment, right now, is the only one we can be completely sure of. Live in it and you'll be sure to find joy.

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This blog is intended to provide helpful suggestions for self care and overall well-being. I am not a mental health professional. If you’re struggling I encourage you to seek the help of a professional. Find a Mental Health Professional | National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988