Mindfulness is a term that’s been out there for some time now. We hear it everywhere: in passing conversation, in social media, on blog posts…and still, the heart of mindfulness is worth understanding for our daily lives. I often hear “mindfulness” used similarly to the idea of being thoughtful. To be mindful of our purchases/spending, our eating habits, our relationships, and so forth. While this is not a wrong way to use the term, mindfulness goes a little deeper than that.

The heart of mindfulness is being present with the current moment and observing it. To engage in mindful practices is to open the heart and the mind with loving curiosity for ourselves and our surroundings. As you read through this post, I encourage you to take a moment to engage in mindfulness. 

Take a moment to take a deep breath, down to your stomach and exhale when you’re ready. Starting at the soles of your feet and working your way up, just observe yourself. What your body might be feeling, noticing emotions, the thoughts in your head and just check in with yourself. Notice your surroundings--the things you can see, hear, and touch. Notice without problem solving, sit with it for a minute. 

When we engage in mindfulness, it can allow us to notice the world around us, within us, and support us in making regulated decisions. It is one way we can begin to acknowledge and care for our own needs.

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