An Intro to Mindfulness for Newbies
Paying attention can pay off with less stress, more joy, and even weight loss.
“Mindfulness” is a word we're hearing a lot these days, but as trendy as seems to be, it's also a very simple concept. Being mindful simply means being present in the here and now. Simple—but powerful.
How to be mindful
If you have…
10 minutes: Find a quiet place—perhaps in your car or in the bathroom—where no one can bother you. Some members find it helpful to hold a memento of a relaxing time, such as a seashell, a pebble or a leaf. Just close your eyes, relax your jaw, breathe and recall the feelings of being in that serene time and place.
20 minutes: Leave your to-do list and phone behind and take a 20-minute walk. Focus on the here and now: the sidewalk, the sound of sprinklers, the warmth of the sun, the caressing breeze.
30 minutes: Try a few relaxing yoga poses, like this routine, which promotes relaxation as well as awareness. Not into yoga? Take a bath, dance to a favorite song, or try some simple, ease-out-the-kinks stretches.