Mindfulness

Mindfulness: The Art of Being Present

What is Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully conscious and aware in the present moment. It involves calmly acknowledging and accepting our thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without judgment. While often linked to spiritual practices, mindfulness is more about tuning into our own instincts and intuition, helping us develop greater personal situational awareness.

Understanding Human Instincts

We rely on three core instincts:

Head - Logical thinking and reasoning - Heart - Emotional intelligence and empathy -Gut - Intuitive decision making

Understanding Human Primary Senses

Alongside these instincts we also experience life through exteroceptive stimulus of our five primary senses

Sight, Hearing, Scent, Taste, Touch

It is our instincts and senses working together that alert us to when something “feels off” - be that physically, mentally or emotionally.

  • 1. Be in the moment

    In our fast-paced lives, we often multitask without realizing it. Try slowing down—when making a cup of tea or coffee, focus solely on that task. Avoid distractions like checking your phone or washing dishes simultaneously. This is a great time to practice deep breathing techniques.

  • 2. Acceptance

    Description goes hereAcceptance is a powerful tool for stress management. It allows us to respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally. When faced with a stressful event, take a moment to assess the situation from a rational perspective rather than reacting impulsively.

  • 3. Gratitude

    Cultivating an "attitude of gratitude" helps shift focus from what we lack to what we have. Appreciating small moments of joy can improve overall wellbeing.

  • 4. Meditation

    Meditation is the practice of stillness and awareness. It may seem daunting at first, but it can be life-changing. Whether you choose solo meditation, guided sessions, or online resources like apps and YouTube videos, the benefits are immense.

  • 5. Exercise

    Physical activity, whether intense (like martial arts) or gentle (like yoga or walking), boosts mental clarity and releases feel-good hormones such as dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. Movement is a natural stress reliever.

  • 6. Breathwork

    Controlled breathing exercises help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance overall mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.

  • 7. Polyvagal Activation

    The vagus nerve is crucial for communication between the brain and the body. Strengthening it through mindful practices can enhance resilience to stress and improve nervous system function.

  • 8. Sound Healing (Sound Bathing)

    A sound bath involves lying down and experiencing the soothing vibrations of instruments like Himalayan singing bowls. This practice calms the nervous system, helping with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and insomnia.

Stress and Its Impact on Wellbeing:

Stress affects everyone differently. While some thrive under pressure, others struggle when overwhelmed. Think of stress like a bank account—you have a limited balance, and every stressful situation withdraws from it. Without mindful strategies to replenish it, constant stress can lead to mental and physical exhaustion.

Many people cope with stress in unhealthy ways, such as alcohol, substance abuse, or destructive behaviours. Instead, practicing mindful behaviours and safer coping strategies can help restore balance before reaching a breaking point.

Finding What Works for You

Mindfulness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Everyone has different stress triggers and coping mechanisms. Experiment with different strategies and adopt what resonates with you.

"We grow through what we go through"


By incorporating mindful behaviours and safer coping strategies, you can maintain a healthier balance between your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.