Mindfulness enables us to focus on the here and now. It lets us be temporarily free from the stresses of everyday life. For many people, however, it can be a difficult goal to achieve.
It may be that we don’t like the idea of meditation, that we have too little time for it, or that we just want to relax in front of the tv during our spare time.
But if any of the above apply to you, worry not. There are several ways to become more mindful that require hardly any time or extra energy. Let’s explore the three key paths to explore.
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The Power of Scent
Amid the chaos of the new year, we often forget the simplest of pleasures. Fully immersed in the daily routine, we can disregard one of the most accessible relaxation tools: scent. Very often, smells can elicit a range of moods and feelings, which is ideal for relieving stress and tension.
A walk in the local woods, a roam through your soap collection, or a deep soak in the bath are all activities that could enhance your mood and ease complete acceptance of the current moment.
So, whether it’s lavender or jasmine, the right fragrance could facilitate your journey to mindfulness and enhance your wellbeing.
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The Benefits of Breathing
It may sound obvious, but our hectic lives can often distract us from focussing on what keeps us going: our breath.
When we take the time to notice it, however, we realise that how we breathe can have a huge influence on our mood – and our capacity for creating complete calmness. Although there are many tools and facilities, several experts emphasise the many benefits of the breath for aiding mindfulness.
Even doing something as simple as breathing in, to the count of seven seconds, holding your breath for five and then exhaling for eleven could massively reduce stress levels and temporarily remove you from the hassle of the here and now.
In a bustling and often manic world, it can be tricky to reach a perfect state of mindfulness. With the right knowledge, however, you can attain a deep sense of calm swiftly, wherever you are. Given how easy it is, why not try and make mindfulness your New Year’s resolution?
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Remembering the Small Things
Taking note of the small aspects of life that make us smile can smoothen our journey towards a calmer state of mind.
So, if you struggle to allocate time for relaxation, remember that putting aside the odd five or ten minutes to focus on anything that brings you happiness – whether it be a pleasant object or piece of art – can be hugely beneficial for our emotional wellbeing.
In a bustling and often manic world, it can be tricky to reach a state of mindfulness. With the right knowledge, however, you can attain a deep sense of calm swiftly, wherever you are.
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15 Comments
I had a health scare last year and since then I have appreciated the smaller and more important things ever more. You never know what life will bring and it made me realise that every day is important. Great post xx
Simple steps, and all the more effective and useful for that, Jaki #TriumphantTales
That is so cool. Something I need to remember. Thanks for sharing this. #Triumphanttales
Def trying to be more mindful this year. Even got our eldest going to ‘relax’ classes. #triumphanttales
Mindfulness is so important and you’ve explained so well, why. Meditation is quite difficult, as you say so this is a great way to bring that peace, and positive energy. I will certainly bear this post in mind and bookmark it as a reminder x #TriumphantTales
I like this post because I think loads of us want to do mindfulness but then it can seem just like another task to get perfect when we already have so much on our plates. Since moving, I wear perfume every day and it makes such a difference to my mood. It takes me back to my younger days when I had less on my plate and was more carefree so makes me feel more youthful as a result and brings about a smile and a better mood, Plus the men here say I smell lovely which boosts my ego! Right back to mindfulness! Counting our blessings is something that really helped me emerge from my 10 year battle with depression thanks to a blogging linky. Still try to blog good stuff every week to keep me on track. I do try to do a breathing exercise now and again but should make it a regular practice. Great post my dear that will help folks and they are the important ones #TriumphantTales
Great post. Just taking a moment and being reminded of the little things makes a big difference. #TriumphantTales
Jaki, I so agree. Mindfulness is so important. And the sense of smell can enhance our mood. But since such a high percentage of us are allergic or sensitive to chemicals and synthetic fragrances, I like to encourage people to use natural fragrances. Bring fresh plants and flowers into the home instead of potpourri and air fresheners, which are neurotoxic petrochemicals that have an adverse effect on the health of even people who aren’t aware of having a problem with it. Those who like to wear fragrance should remember what a famous fashion icon said, that your perfume should only be noticed by someone close enough to hug you. #triumphanttales
Absolutely love these tips! Over the last few weeks, Ive really been practising the technique of deep breathing (sounds easier than you think!) Its really helped me during stressful periods at work.
Thanks for sharing! #tripumphanttales
These are simple yet effective. The (rare) times I get my hair cut my hairdresser always gives me a shoulder rub with some oils, closing my eyes and choosing a scent based just off smell and mood is amazing! #TriumphantTales
I am going through depression right now and I am learning a bit about mindfulness and positivity. I will keep these tips in mind.
#TriumphantTales
We need to be grateful as it is often the little things we take for granted in life. Thanks for sharing #triumphanttales
I resolved to wear my perfume every day even if i wasn’t going out, I’ve also been focusing on my breathing as I’ve had a nasty cold and it’s amazing how thinking about breathing whilst doing activities actually makes things easier to do #triumphanttales
I use an app called Headspace for my mindfulness which I find great. I meditate before bed but I want to find time in the mornings too – I’m just gonna have to get up that bit earlier I guess. Great post.
What a lovely read – I’m expecting my first in a few months time so great to read things like this = think i’m going to need it!. Lots of Love LC from luckypretty.blogspot.com