Week 5 Update

Week 5: 5/16- 5/22—MINDFULNESS

Points earned for stop/breathe/observe, drinking water, reading, limiting screen time before bed, and exercise.

PRIZE: Winner of the Mindfulness Cards and Yoga Mat is Amanda Nelson!

We hear the term “Mindfulness” all too often these days, but what does it really mean? It is the act of consciously focusing your mind in the present moment without judgement and without attachment to the moment (Linehan, 2015). It allows us to be more aware, notice the things around us and be grounded in the present moment.

Why be mindful? Life can be overwhelming. Our minds are constantly filled with chatter, distorted perspectives and assumptions and our ability to be present gets lost. It is impacting our health and happiness. Taking a moment in your day to practice mindfulness can help regulate emotions and decrease stress, anxiety and depression. It also allows us to stop, focus and live in the “now”. Mindfulness takes us beyond coping and making do. This practice helps us see the world differently so that we can grow, flourish and live a more fulfilled life.

Pro Tips on Mindfulness:

So how can you get started?

1. Know that your practice can usually be done anywhere, anytime and while doing almost anything.
2. Observe—Slow down and use your senses. What do you see, hear, feel, etc.?
3. No-njudgement—Don’t rate the experience or environment as “good/bad”, rather reflect on how it made you feel and what you learned from it.
4. Focus on your breathing—When you have a negative thought, try to stop-take a deep breath- and closer your eyes. Focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. Breathing for even just one minute can help.