Hi there, and welcome back.
Mindfulness, as you’ve learned already this month, means paying attention in a particular way—on purpose, in the present moment, and without judging what you observe. Hearty congratulations if you’re beginning to notice a richer, more fulfilling way of living.
This blog is about helping you make the Mindful outlook your preferred way of being. It’s easy, really, and only takes five minutes. The secret is to establish Mindful awareness first thing every morning. Here’s how:
As soon as you wake, sit up in bed. Take five deep even breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth. Now as you continue breathing in this way, choose one object in your surroundings. It might be an article of clothing you laid out, or a poster on the wall. Perhaps there’s a vase of flowers in the room, or you could choose something outside your window such as the branch of a tree or a cloud. Choose a different item each morning.
Next, study your chosen item Mindfully. What do you observe? Take in all of it; notice the tiniest details. Choose your descriptors carefully and thoughtfully—for example, rather than a ‘white cloud’, tell yourself you’re observing a ‘creamy’ or ‘ivory’ cloud. Or describe the cloud as ‘soft white in the centre, becoming pure white towards the edges’.
Once you feel you’ve described the object thoroughly, close your eyes and enjoy five more slow Mindful breaths. Then get up and go about your normal day.
Don’t worry, by the way, that if you start your day in such a relaxed manner you’ll forget to do ‘important’ things later. Beginning your morning in this way will actually make for a better day, because when you start calm and centred you’ll be better able to think clearly, remember what you need to remember, and make wise judgments throughout your waking hours.
All the best for a Mindful future!
Until next time,
Linda
thank you for taking the time to let me know it was helpful!
I’m going to really try to do this. Thank you xxx