July 19, 2021

Mind Full of Life

Nour Fayad

Do you sometimes hate yourself for overthinking and not being able to enjoy the moment? Do you struggle with focusing on one task at a time?

With all the changes that are happening around us in today's busy world, we all think too much, want too much and forget too much, that we often rush through life without stopping to notice much. So, how do we improve our well-being while paying more attention to our own feelings and to the world around us?

 

Practicing mindfulness is key to a healthy and happy life, but what exactly is mindfulness?

This practice originated from ancient eastern and Buddhist philosophy and dates back around 2500 years. It’s about observing your life, being aware of your thoughts and the situations you are currently in. It’s not something stable, nor are some people ‘born more mindful’ than others. So don’t worry, with practice you will be able to master it.

 

Nowadays, Mindfulness is an integral part of the treatment of many psychological disorders due to its many health benefits:

  • Reduces stress
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Improves memory 
  • Treats anxiety and depression
  • Improves immune system 
  • Better sleep 
  • Relaxed state of wellbeing
  • Maximizes productivity 
  • Relationship satisfaction

 

Interesting, right? Now let’s discover how you can use this practice in your day-to-day life. 

  • Take note of whatever it is you're engaged in
  • Be aware of your breath 
  • Find social support 
  • Treat yourself the way you would treat a good friend
  • Try listening in a way that's entirely judgment-free 
  • Listen carefully 

 

Since being mindful in the workplace is something that every successful person needs to learn, here's an example of how to be mindful at work.

Henry in unhappy with Hannah, and tries to explain his feelings. Eventhough his words his words come out a little muddled and full of emotion, Hannah can try to listen without judging him.

Hannah now can pay attention to Henry's words without crafting a response in her mind or engaging emotionally. Instead, she can respond in a more meaningful and compassionate way rather than arguing for no reason. 

Therefore, by being mindful, Henry and Hannah will reach a more productive outcome and build trust and respect in their workplace. 

 

Did you know that spiritual practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing can help you cultivate mindfulness?

So in order to get the best out of mindfulness, you must practice self-regulation techniques like the ones mentioned eralier. These techniques will teach you how to focus your attention and control your thoughts so you can be able to develop capacities such as calmness, clarity and concentration. 

 

Buddah says: "The mind is everything. What you think you become." 

Always cherish your mind. Do not be stuck in the best and do not only dream of the future. Just concentrate your mind on the present moment and become the best version of yourself. 

Take a moment right now to receive the immense beauty and joy that surrounds you. Always remember to pause, experience life as it is, and live more fully in the here and now.