According to mindful.org, 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. While mindfulness is something we all naturally possess, it’s more readily available to us when we practice on a daily basis.
With everything going back to normal, from going to work and kids going to school, we are sometimes stressed out in balancing our time and in performing our duties in our own homes. These things may be stressful and chaotic but Doctors Nova Scotia has these tips for you to help yourself stay grounded and maintain that mindfulness as the school year gets into gear.
Get a new perspective
Most of the time, stress comes from distressing about the bad things happen in the past and being paranoid and worrisome about our future. One activity that helps is doing a photo walk. This means trying a walk while looking for some tiny natural wonders. It’s like a mini scavenger hunt such as looking for wildflowers growing in the cracks of the sidewalk, a snowflake on an old brick wall, or a wind-blown bird’s nest. You don’t need fancy cameras. This relaxing activity can be used with your phones and your kids might enjoy it too!
Make use of the time available
Take any extra time to meditate. You can do it while waiting to pickup your kids, while waiting outside for a game, or waiting for your little ones from their extra-curricular activities. This is much better exercise for you to practice mindfulness than scrolling through your phone. This can help you feel calmer, more in control, and more resilient.
Expand your practice
When you are used to the practice of mindfulness, it’s time to make it a habit and improve your practices. If you usually meditate for three minutes, try to make it half an hour. Used to being alone, try to join classes or make your activities with a partner or in groups.
Make it a family affair
This would all fail if it results you distancing yourself from your family. Encourage them to join you. Your kids would love it as they might be stressed in school too.
More to this story at https://www.yourdoctors.ca/blog/healthy-living/mindfulness
Reference:
https://www.yourdoctors.ca/
Photo by Katerina May on Unsplash
