Mindfulness
Mindfulness has been an aspect of many religious and meditative practices for generations, but that does not mean it has to be practiced as part of a religion.
Mindfulness is very different than our regular way of thinking. Modern research, including brain scans, is showing that regular practice of mindfulness can successfully treat depression, anxiety, improve executive functions of the brain, improve sleep, and lead to better health. Experts in the field have found over 2000 scientific studies showing important benefits of regular Mindfulness.
While there are different types of mindful practices, the underlying principle is moment-by-moment, intentional, hovering conscious awareness of one’s experience, without judgment. It may be helpful to think of this as Mind & Heart-fulness.
We sometimes use Mindfulness practice in our work with people. Mindfulness rewires our brains in the direction of health and optimal development. Some people find that their brains are so active that they cannot seem to get into a mindful state. There are several ways to achieve a mindful state. One way is to walk quietly in nature, another way is to listen to a guided mindfulness exercise by an expert, and a third is to sit as quietly as possible and just notice what you hear.
I offer Awareness in Wild Experiences (a type of natural Mindfulness) outside the office. Please ask about this if you are interested.
For a great summary about Mindfulness, visit Ted Talks and watch Dr, Shauna Shapiro present on the Power of Mindfulness. She has been studying it since 1999. Other experts in this are: Jon Kabat Zinn, Jack Kornfield, Tara Brach, Dan Siegel, and Kristin Neff.
For a life you value; Minds Transforming Lives.
If you have any questions, please ask.