Improve Your Mental Health and Wellness Through Mindfulness
Simple changes in lifestyle can often lead to improved mental health and wellness.
Mindfulness is such a practice. Mindfulness is a strategy that sometimes can be confusing,
but strong research has shown it to be very useful for those of us suffering from
depression, anxiety and daily stress.
Mindfulness is not complicated and is defined as simply an awareness of the moment,
with "an attitude of openness and acceptance." Awareness means to notice emotions,
anxieties, negative perceptions and self-talk as they arise. By noticing these things
early, you can be more flexible in your responses.
An open and accepting attitude allows you to accept whatever arises, rather than trying
to suppress or make a big deal out of it. When you accept your emotions, you aren't
struggling with internal conflict, so you have more resources to deal positively with
the situation.
Try a mindful technique called STOP and see if it helps you wait with a little more
comfort:
- Slow Down
- Take a Breath
- Observe Your Body, Thoughts and Feelings
- Process Your Possibilities, Then Proceed
There are multiple mindfulness apps to consider, including:
- Zen Lounge: Meditate with Relaxing Sounds
- Serenity: Guided Meditation & Mindfulness
- Insight Timer: Free Meditation App
- Calm: Meditate, Sleep, Relax