Mindfulness, part 3: Why mindfulness?

This is the third part of a three-part series. Read part 1 and part 2.

We are creatures of habit. Have you ever driven home and not remembered how you got there? Many daily tasks can be completed without much thinking, especially if it’s something we do often.

It generally takes something out of the ordinary to shake us from autopilot. We might find ourselves getting run down by day-to-day activities. A mindfulness practice can guide us to find the “extraordinary in the ordinary.”

The awareness practiced through mindfulness breaks the spell of running on autopilot and pulls us into a new way of being. Research is showing that practicing mindfulness can change the way the brain reacts to emotional content, making it less reactive overall.

How we respond to stress is not only a biological process, but also one that is shaped by our memories, thoughts and feelings related to whatever is causing the stress. Sometimes our responses are unhelpful, such as emotional eating or social isolation.

Mindfulness can help us find a place where we are no longer shackled by our past or paralyzed by the fear of our future. It can help us develop coping attitudes of patience, self-compassion and acceptance to engage differently with our daily experiences.

During times of stress, some of us may look for quick fixes such as junk food or binge-watching a TV show. Although these habits can be enjoyable in moderation and provide short-term relief, in the long run they may lead to more complicated health issues. Learning to be mindful with eating and moving can help shift us closer to the healthy and happy life we want to live.

Most people can practice mindfulness with little risk. However, individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder, active psychosis or other serious mental health conditions may want to speak with a mental health provider to see if it is right for them.

How do I start to be mindful?

With anything new, we want to start slow so we don’t get overwhelmed. Start with a simple activity such as sitting and counting your breaths to build your comfort with keeping your focus on the present.

Below are some resources to continue your mindfulness journey.

Suggestions for starting a practice

Formal practice can take place while sitting, lying down or even walking. Start with 5-10 minutes. Begin with a mindful breathing or body scan exercise and go from there.

Informal practice can take place through any activity you find yourself engaged with, such as journaling, coloring or eating.

Books:

“Mindfulness for Beginners” (2006) by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD
“Full Catastrophe Living” (1990) by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD
“A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Workbook” by Bob Stahl, PhD, and Elisha Goldstein, PhD

Apps: