What is full conscoiusness?Nowadays stress and anxiety are much more present in our lives than we would like. Mindfulness or also called full attention, has become a simple and effective tool to improve our well-being. In this article, we will explain what mindfulness is and how we can incorporate it into our daily life
Mindfulness is a practice that is based on placing attention consciously on the present moment. It consists in the action of stopping and observing, without making value judgments. It is a technique that has been used for centuries in contemplative oriental traditions, specifically, it has its roots in Buddhism. It was popularized in the Western world in the 1970s, when Jon Kabat-Zinn, professor of medicine at the University of Massachusetts developed the stress reduction program based on mindfulness (MBSR). Since then, it is a tool that has been gaining more and more recognition, showing very positive results in different areas of health.
One of the main effects of mindfulness is the reduction of negative thoughts and worries. It makes our mind stop going from one place to another and allows us to improve concentration and mental clarity. The fact of being more present also contributes to us being able to connect in a more honest and sincere way with others, thus improving the relationships we establish.
Start with the breath. The breath is a natural anchor point for mindfulness, because it is always there and accompanies us at every moment. When we pay attention to the simple fact of inhaling and exhaling, the mind calms down and we stop being trapped in thoughts about the past or the future. Each conscious breath reminds us that we are here and now, and offers us a space of clarity and tranquility in the middle of everyday life.
➡️The first practice consists in dedicating a few minutes to breathing consciously. Try to adopt a comfortable posture with your back straight but not rigid. Direct the attention towards your breath without changing it or forcing it. If thoughts appear, recognize them without judging them and try to direct again your attention towards the breath. Breathe… inhaling… realizing that you inhale, exhaling… realizing that you exhale. Again, inhaling… realizing that you inhale, exhaling… realizing that you exhale. You can notice the path of the air, its movements… Only observing, without judging. If you notice emotions or physical sensations, you can welcome them with curiosity and kindness. Inhaling and exhaling. Observing your breath. For a few moments, stay with this premise: breathing and being conscious.
If you are reading these words I deeply thank you for having reached here and I encourage you to begin to practice mindfulness.🙏💖