DIY: mindfulness

5 Mindfulness Exercises by Thich Nhat Hanh, Mind Fuel Daily

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We're fast approaching the holiday season, and then a national election, so this is likely a good time to set up anti-stress measures. Mindfulness is easy to start, takes a lifetime to master, if ever. Praises of its benefits are sung by many. Dr. Russ Harris at The Happiness Trap says this about mindfulness:

‘Mindfulness’ is a hot topic in Western psychology: increasingly recognised as an effective way to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, enhance emotional intelligence, and effectively handle painful thoughts and feelings.

Although mindfulness has only recently been embraced by Western psychology, it is an ancient practice found in a wide range of Eastern philosophies, including Buddhism, Taoism and Yoga. Mindfulness involves consciously bringing awareness to your here-and-now experience with openness, interest, and receptiveness. Jon Kabat-Zinn, a world authority on the use of mindfulness training in the management of clinical problems, defines it as:  "Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally."

Mindfulness is about waking up, connecting with ourselves, and appreciating the fullness of each moment of life. Kabat-Zinn calls it, "The art of conscious living."  It is a profound way to enhance psychological and emotional resilience, and increase life satisfaction.

One article that I found particularly informative is CNN's "Destress your life in 10 easy steps." Day 5: The intensely frustrating line meditation promises to be helpful, although my favorite thing to do in line is people watch.

Berkley's Greater Good site features a talk by Jon Kabat-Zinn you may find interesting.

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One last reference today is an article at Fast Company, titled "Meditation techniques for people who hate meditation." In it there's a sweet story about Miss Dunn's teaching technique.

-- Marge