Content provided by the GBS Health & Wellness Team
Modern living has convinced many of us that being busy means we are successful. We quickly transition from the role of employee to friend, spouse, parent, and caregiver, while simultaneously juggling all the related tasks.
It sounds exhausting, yet it’s easy to relate. Employees often spend most of the day multitasking at work, and once home they try to complete household chores while keeping one eye on the kids and the other on their favorite TV show.
Does this sound familiar?
Rushing through daily tasks results in a loss of connection with the present moment. The practice of mindfulness allows appreciation of the here and now by adding intentionality and awareness to daily tasks. Mindfulness is all about savoring the happiness of life as it occurs.
Did You Know? Living in the moment takes on a new meaning when considering that tradition suggests a moment lasts only 90 seconds. Practicing mindfulness brings intentionality and joy to these quickly fleeting moments.
Benefits of Mindfulness
Being mindful brings added joy to life, reduces stress, and allows full engagement in daily activities. Instead of rehashing past problems or obsessing over future challenges, focusing on the present gives space to breathe, leading to reduced anxiety, gained insight, and a new level of freedom.
How to Be Mindful Daily
- Learn to bring attention to each of your body’s senses. Zero in on the sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch during at least one daily activity.
- Take a new route on the way home from work and notice something unique about your surroundings, like a new building or the flowers at a local park.
- Take deep breaths. Breathing can act as an anchor and help return your attention to the present moment.
- Set the tone for the day by focusing on mindfulness first thing in the morning.
- Avoid checking emails, text messages, or the news until after taking a moment to acknowledge and examine the present.
- Practice mindfulness while waiting. Consider traffic on the way to work or the line at the grocery store as opportunities to be mindful.
- Mindfully listen to what others have to say and be careful not to interject with irrelevant or self-focused thoughts. Be intentional to address the feelings of others.
- Take a moment to check in with repeated daily choices. What content are you allowing into your mind and home? What people are you surrounding yourself with? Evaluate these areas and find ways to improve your surroundings.
- Rather than going on autopilot, try being aware of the simple activities throughout the day. Pay particular attention while brushing your teeth, eating lunch, and interacting with others.
- Write in a journal to capture mindful reflections from the day. Notice your reactions and feelings towards difficult and happy activities throughout the day.
