In our hectic world, it can feel like life is moving too fast. Yes, it’s already 2025! Our minds are often filled with things we have got to do, worries about the future, or regrets about the past. We’ve all had times when we felt disconnected from what really matters. Mindfulness is a way to slow down, focus on the present moment, and connect with what’s happening right now. It’s a skill anyone can learn and can change how we think, feel, and live every day. Let’s look at what mindfulness is, why it’s important, and how to practice it in your daily life.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness means paying attention to what’s happening right now, without judging it. It’s about noticing what’s going on inside your body and mind, like your thoughts, feelings, and sensations, without getting lost in them. Practicing mindfulness helps you feel more connected to yourself and to the world around you. You can practice mindfulness in different ways, such as by focusing on your breath, noticing nature, or being fully present while eating, walking, or doing other everyday activities.
Why is Mindfulness Important?
Being mindful can help you in many ways, both mentally and physically. Studies show that mindfulness can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety: By focusing on the present, you can stop worrying about the future or thinking about things from the past.
- Improve focus and concentration: Mindfulness helps you stay on track and make better decisions.
- Boost your emotional health: It helps you understand your feelings and respond calmly instead of reacting too quickly.
- Improve your physical health: Research suggests that mindfulness can help lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and make your body stronger.
How to Start Thinking and Feeling Mindfully
Changing the way how you think and feel takes practice, but small steps can make a big difference. You can start by creating quiet moments during your day. Take a deep breath or pause to notice your surroundings. This helps you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without feeling overwhelmed by them.
Mindful thinking means noticing your thoughts without judging them. For example, if you’re feeling frustrated, instead of saying, “I shouldn’t feel like this,” try saying, “I notice that I feel frustrated.” This helps you understand your feelings without letting them control you.
Mindful Thinking and Feeling
Mindful thinking means being aware of your thoughts and how they affect your feelings. Sometimes, we think negative or unhelpful things, which can cause stress or unhappiness. Mindfulness helps us notice these thoughts and gently bring our minds back to the present.
Mindful feeling is about accepting your emotions in a healthy way. Instead of avoiding tough feelings like sadness or anger, mindfulness encourages you to sit with them, notice them, and let them pass on their own. This can help you build emotional strength and be kinder to yourself.
Mindful Doing
Mindfulness isn’t just about thinking and feeling – it’s also about what you do. You can bring mindfulness into your everyday activities by focusing on them. Here are a few examples:
- Mindful eating: Pay attention to the taste, texture, and smell of your food. Eat slowly and enjoy every bite.
- Mindful walking: Notice how your feet feel when they touch the ground, the rhythm of your steps, and the sounds around you.
- Mindful conversations: Be fully present when talking to someone. Listen carefully without thinking about what to say next or checking your phone.
Mindfulness can help you notice your thoughts and feelings so you can manage them better. By practicing mindful doing, you can turn simple tasks into moments of joy and happiness.
In conclusion, mindfulness is a helpful tool for improving your mental, emotional, and physical health. By focusing on the present moment, you can reduce stress, improve your relationships, and live a more fulfilling life. Keep in mind that mindfulness is a skill, and as any other skill it takes time to build, so start small and be patient with yourself.
If you are excited about learning more about mindfulness, consider talking to a therapist or mindfulness coach. We are here to help and guide you in practicing mindfulness and making positive changes in your life.
Author: Nenad Bakaj, MHumServ (RehabCouns), BSocWk, DipAppSci (Comm&HumServ), AMHSW, MAAC, MAASW, JP (Qld)
Nenad Bakaj is a Brisbane based Clinical Counsellor, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Life Coach and Bigger Bite Out Of Life Trainer with a keen interest in positive psychology, mental health and wellbeing, and is continually developing his professional skills and knowledge. Nenad enjoys working with adolescents and young adults, as well as older clients, and feels it is a privilege to be able to support them.
References
1. Goleman, D., & Davidson, R. J. (2017). Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body. Avery.
2. Kabat-Zinn, J. (1994). Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life. Hyperion.
3. Walker, R. (2019). The Art of Noticing: 131 Ways to Spark Creativity, Find Inspiration, and Discover Joy in the Everyday. Knopf.