Sometimes it’s just hard to switch off and silence all the noise in your head. We create buzz with our own thoughts that struggle to find a place to land and settle, and then we attempt to combat that by thinking some more.
The long and short?
Most of us try to silence our thoughts with more thoughts telling the original thoughts to remain still. Meet the “Monkey Mind”, the mind that is unsettled and feels all over the place.
And here enter: the art and practise of mindfulness.
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness can be understood as the awareness of the “now” and yielding to the present moment. Mindfulness is an acceptance of both sides of the coin and resting in that space that neither judges nor condemns. Mindfulness is.
In the space of being fully aware, we allow ourselves to recognise the space we fill and how our entirety feels in this present moment. We begin to listen. We listen to our:
Soul
Mind
Body
And acknowledge what we’re hearing.
Why mindfulness?
In his article, “Brains of Buddist monks scanned in Meditation Study”, Matt Danzico (2011) discusses Dr Josipovic’s statement:
“Meditation research, particularly in the last 10 years or so, has shown to be very promising because it points to an ability of the brain to change and optimise in a way we didn’t know previously was possible.”
When one relaxes into a state of oneness, the neural networks in experienced practitioners change as they lower the psychological wall between themselves and their environments, Dr Josipovic says.
And this reorganisation in the brain may lead to what some meditators claim to be a deep harmony between themselves and their surroundings.
The power of mindfulness to reorganise and redefine our neural pathways as well as our brain structure is remarkable. Previously believed to be fully structured by the age of 25, neuroplasticity has opened up a whole new awareness of how we can continue to shape and develop ourselves neurologically until the day we leave this existence.
Mindfulness is a potent practise that encourages this.
Coming back to the present
It starts with coming back to the present.
So what does Mindfulness look like, practically?
Coming back to the present.
But how?
- Focus on your breath
- Become aware of yourself and where you are
- Hear the sounds around you; don’t judge
- Engage in a quick body scan
- Breathe
- Breathe peace into any areas of your body that feel heavy or tight
- Choose acceptance and find an affirmation that resonates for you
Life is all about the moments that make it, and Mindfulness brings back the gratitude and peace in those moments. It is a practise that has profound affects on our health and wellness. At Made To Thrive, we encourage you to become part of a community that encourages your wellbeing. Get plugged in, and if you’re wanting to know more about Mindfulness and the art of Breath Work, find a Thrivist who’ll journey with you through your own victory.
