Mindfulness In Unprecedented Times

Mindfulness is the human ability to be fully present, to fully attend to what is going on around you and what you are doing at the time, as well as the space you’re in. It might not seem like a very important activity, but mindfulness has been proven to help us during times of stress or challenges that threaten to overwhelm us, and we could all use a little help like that right now. When practicing mindfulness your mind is freed to disengage from thinking about negative or sad thoughts in an obsessive matter, enabling us to handle what is within our power and keeping us from fretting about what we cannot control. 

You can practice mindfulness in many different ways, and today I would like to share a few suggestions with you on how to do just that.

Meditation is one of the most popular ways to practice mindfulness, and it may be so popular simply because you can do it almost anywhere: sitting, standing, walking, running, or laying down. Inserting short meditation pauses into our lives brings about a reduction in stress, and this will often enhance our performance in both work and play. We lose less energy to worry and stress so we can pour ourselves into what we are engaged in at the moment. 

Mindfulness is not an exotic, special activity; we actually practice it every day, but challenging situations can rob us of our normal ability to focus. Anyone can, and should, do it; even just a little bit of mindfulness makes life better. It reminds us that there is good in the world, that even the worst of times will pass, and that every morning brings fresh opportunity. 

Other ways to practice mindfulness can be: deep and careful breathing, long walks in natural surroundings, listening to peaceful music, enjoying an art or a craft project, and spending time alone just enjoying who you are. 

Our world is increasingly complex, and practicing mindfulness helps us to dig deep into our creative abilities to find solutions and helps us to be more effective and resilient.

Just try this: Take a seat – anywhere that’s comfortable. Now take a minute – notice your body, your appendages, your posture. Straighten your back, arms, and legs so that they are not crossed or cramped. Now just relax for a few moments. Be there, right where you are, and nowhere else. Relax. Think about good things, or nothing at all. Ready? Now get up from your mindfulness spot and go about your day. Simple, right?

Practicing healthy behaviors is vital to keeping yourself in great mental and physical shape, and as a business owner, you already know how important that is. Mindfulness is one of those simple ways you can do just that, and I am happy to be able to share it with you. 
I’m Anna-Vija McClain. As a speaker, business owner, and mentor to other small business owners, it is my honor and privilege to serve the Nashville business community. I am here for you!