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By Karen Edwards, author of 365 Days of Mindful Meditations (Summersdale)
I often get asked, ‘what does mindfulness achieve’? My answer is that to each individual, mindfulness serves a different purpose. In essence, however, it can bring a great sense of calm in an otherwise chaotic world.
This can be explained through the simple notion of focusing on the present. When your attention is on that moment, you are not hankering after the past or anticipating the future. Isn’t that a powerful thought? Through these so-called techniques of mindfulness, you can steer your mind into this moment in time you have control over – the here and now.
There is, of course, a more practical explanation as to why mindfulness is advised by health and wellness professionals – often as an anxiety-reducing, mental wellbeing technique. When we slow down and focus our thoughts, we activate our parasympathetic nervous system which decreases our heart rate – inevitably lowering the release of stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. Research shows that this can reduce stress, soothe feelings of anxiety and can even tackle some symptoms of depression. Aside from that, the lowering of these hormones can help to ease insomnia and boost concentration and brain health.
On another level, being centred in your thoughts is a healthy way to live each day. It shapes self-confidence and compassion towards others, removing judgment from your mindset because you are happy in yourself. In turn, this gives you the tools to build healthier relationships. With a calmer mind, you can problem solve with more clarity and assurance; you can trust your instinct when decision making and believe that you know what’s best for you. If there was ever a reason to practice mindfulness on the most basic level, the above are it.
Above all, the power of mindfulness is that it helps to combat the negative emotions that can come with feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Feelings of which many of us can relate. Mindfulness allows you to let go of sadness or worries – and to function from a place of peace, contentment and understanding.
If that seems like a place you would like to be, then consider introducing mindfulness techniques into your regular lifestyle. Every day, we will be sharing tips on various techniques. Try them and find the exercises that work for you. And remember, empowering your mind takes time – but you will learn the best mindfulness techniques for you through practice. So have faith in yourself, and start your journey.
IN SUMMARY
- Mindfulness serves a different purpose to each individual
- When we slow down and focus our thoughts, we activate our parasympathetic nervous system which decreases our heart rate – inevitably lowering the release of stress hormones.
- Being centered in your thoughts shapes self-confidence and compassion towards others, giving you the tools to build healthier relationships. With a calmer mind, you can problem solve with more clarity and assurance; you can trust your instinct when decision making and believe that you know what’s best for you.
- Mindfulness allows you to let go of sadness or worries – and to function from a place of peace, contentment and understanding.