You may have heard the term “mindfulness” before, but what is mindfulness or mindful living really? Research shows that mindfulness refers to the ability to be fully present at the moment, be aware of what is happening around you, and not overreact. Our lives are dominated by digital screens, constant notifications, busy schedules, and hectic city life. We have become “on autopilot.” This can lead to anxiety, stress, distraction, and even unhappiness. To fully understand the concept of mindfulness, it is important first to integrate it into our daily lives.

Always Open Yourself to Learning

My mindfulness has expanded. Include all people. Instead of excluding others by feeling bitterness or assigning blame, I feel a zen-like calmness that accepts myself and others without expectations of how they should behave. Is it realistic to expect everyone to behave the way we want them to? Or to use our values to determine how others should live their lives. I also realize that every person I meet, no matter how insignificant they may seem, is orchestrated by the universe to teach me something. We are all more connected than our minds allow. If we take the time to observe and learn, we will see that even the smallest interactions can provide the most profound lessons that help shape who we are today.

Practice Meditation

Meditation is no longer a practice reserved for yogis and wellness gurus. Thanks to guided meditation classes and the plethora of videos on the Internet, meditation is becoming increasingly popular with everyone. How does one get to meditation? You can meditate by sitting still, closing your eyes, and focusing on your breath. If you’re just starting out, you can practice for five to ten seconds. Research shows that just a few minutes of mindful breathing a day can make a big difference to your mind, body, and spirit. You won’t see immediate changes, but consistent practice will lead to dramatic improvements in the way you think, feel and act.

Be Present in the Moment

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment. Many people spend their lives living in the past or worrying about the future. Calm down and focus on what is happening now. You can do mindfulness activities that help you stay present, such as reading, taking a walk, or listening to music. It may be a good idea to write down the activities you do each day, from when you wake up to when you go to bed. Please keep track of each one and consider whether it helps you clear your mind and stay focused.