What is mindfulness

Mindfulness is the state of being conscious or aware of something. Used as a therapeutic technique, it is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, while simultaneously not being reactive by what is going on around one’s body.

A simple example of mindfulness could be slowing down and focusing one’s full attention on the meal they are eating. Experience the food with all of the senses – touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste. The practice of mindfully eating gives way to true enjoyment. 

How can mindfulness help

Research shows that using a mindfulness approach in your daily life can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even regular daily stressors. Additionally, mindfulness can help one:

• cope better with difficult thoughts

• feel calmer

• boost attention and concentration

• better understand their emotions

• improve sleep patterns

How to get started with mindfulness

To begin with mindfulness, one needs to focus on awareness and have an open and accepting attitude. Simply using a four step mental checklist, anyone can practice mindfulness, anywhere and anytime, taking less than a minute. The acronym is S.T.O.P.:

Stop
Stop for just a moment. Don’t react. Give yourself the gift of brief reflection.

Take a breath
Track your breath, in and out. Feel your chest rise and fall.

Observe
Observe the moment you are in, the thoughts you are experiencing, your emotions and how your body feels.

Proceed 
Proceed mindfully with kindness and in a way that aligns with your values.

If you are struggling with anxiety, you may benefit from additional support through seeing a counselor. At Pivot Counseling Services, we help adolescents and adults work through anxiety so they can thrive in daily life.