Welcome to my Mindfulness Series – Let’s be Mindful. Through this series I will share mindfulness tips and exercises on-the-go that will help you to de-stress and relax. You will learn tips on how to tune out of past and future worries and apprehensions by simply stepping into the present moment.
Part 1 – Let’s be mindful – Mindful Breathing
We live busy lives in busy times. So many things to get done, so many places to be, so many ideas and conflicting thoughts to juggle.
- Does it ever happen that you’ve been out walking and found that you’ve walked a few rounds without even realising it?
- Or driven a few minutes without actually noticing the route or the traffic around you?
- Or sat through a conversation and discovered that your mind had wandered and you had missed what was being said?
You, dear friend, are not present in the moment and this is where Mindfulness comes in.
All it means, simply put, is to bring your attention to everything and everyone around you. To be part of where you are, what you see, what you hear, what you feel and what you experience in a non -judgemental manner.
The easiest and quickest way to becoming more mindful and relaxed is to practice Mindful Breathing.
Mindful Breathing can be practiced on-the-go, by focusing on your breath and allowing your mind to reset itself by bringing it into the present moment. You can practice this breathing exercise anywhere at any time. For instance, you may be sitting cross legged in a quiet room, or sitting in your car stuck in traffic, standing at the door just about to enter an interview room or simply out for a walk.
Follow the steps mentioned below.
Mindful Breathing Steps:
- Make yourself comfortable whether you are seated or standing
- Breathe in (Inhale slowly to 6 counts)
- Hold your breath (for 2 counts)
- Breathe out (Exhale slowly to 8 counts)
As you inhale and exhale, focus on your breath and bring your attention to your surroundings. - Repeat 3-5 times
Even as your mind starts to wander, bring it back to the present moment by taking the next breath and paying attention to it – unhurriedly, just as it is.
Voila, you have reset your mind and are ready to go on with your day, mindfully.
Yours Mindfully, Rajni
Founder, YouGo Yoga and Mindfulness
