The first thing to point out (without it sounding too obvious) is that we are only human, and being human means we have been given some pretty basic brain equipment that was ideally designed for living in tribes on the plains where wild animals and other real physical dangers were present every day. In an ideal world, we would have…
I watch people at events recording the event on their phone, often watching the whole event through their screen and I often wonder why they are settling for experiencing through the sense of Iphone when we are naturally programmed with these amazing senses to help us savour experiences in the present moment and automatically store them with vivid memories of…
There is scientific evidence that grateful people are more resilient to stress, whether minor everyday hassles or major personal upheavals. The benefits: Puts us in a positive frame of mind. Improved physical, emotional and social well-being Connects us with the people and world around us. Improved relationships Better understanding of ourselves – what we appreciate tells us about who we…
There is a wealth of sound and scientifically backed research into the quantifiable benefits of mindfulness. Most scientifically backed studies into mindfulness last at least eight weeks, and quantify mindfulness as participating in an eight week course, such as MBCT or MBSR and conducting regular practice throughout this period. Research has shown that mindfulnessreduces the severity of symptoms of depression…
Sometimes it can feel like our mind thinks us and that we are innocent bystanders at the mercy of a magic porridge pot of thoughts that just won’t stop. It is possible to take control back of the mind, and to be able to slow the mind down; disengage with any unhelpful thought patterns and the first stage in this…
Mindful movement can be a great addition to everyone’s mindfulness practice. It is especially good if you feel it will be difficult to sit still and clear your mind, or if you are in need of some fresh air and sunlight which boosts vitamin D, reinforces our circadian rythym which helps us get a good night’s sleep. Getting in touch…
Mindfulness | Meditation | Mindfulness meditation | Self compassion | Resilience | Stress | Anxiety It’s not always pleasantMindfulness meditation and exercises are not intended as relaxation exercises. You will, more than likely, have times when meditations feel blissful, however there are also days and practices that will be torture for you. Some days your mind just does not want…
Children are more naturally in the present moment, but there can be a tendency for children to worry and get anxious about the future or things that have happened in the past. Change is a constant for many children and dealing with change can be challenging and being mindful and in the present can help children adapt. Many of the mindfulness…
Switches off autopilot Mindfulness is about switching off autopilot and experiencing the present moment as it is, through all five senses rather than through the fog of the thinking mind. Mindfulness gives us space to detach from unhelpful thought patterns, thus freeing us from the suffering of our own minds. This widens the possibilities open to us, helps us recognise the…
It’s a religion Mindfulness has evolved and been made more mainstream through the work of John Kabat-Zinn who adapted it from its Buddhist roots. Despite these roots, mindfulness is secular, available to people of all religions and people with no faith or religious beliefs. Mindfulness is about changing the way we think but in no way does it prescribe what…