Making Time For Mindfulness – Mental Health Minute

“Learning to be content in one’s own company is one of life’s most difficult lessons.” Lisa Philippart

WAIT! Don’t just skim right past this section. If you are in a hurry and think this article doesn’t apply to you, then you are exactly who should be taking that minute to read this. Your mental health may depend on it! Ok, so now that I have your attention, when was the last time you took time out of your crazy, hectic, multi-tasking day to just BE in the moment? I know what you are thinking. I’m not into all that reflection, meditation stuff. Well, let me give you some information and see if I can change your mind.

Mindfulness has become quite a buzz-word during the past decade, and it seems to have taken on many different meanings depending on who is using it. For your mental health’s sake, I am referring to just the straight dictionary definition, which means “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.” I love this! Have you ever allowed yourself to be completely present in the moment? To take breaks during the day to center yourself?

The beauty of mindfulness is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. You simply set aside as little as 5 minutes daily. I recommend sitting in a comfortable chair (don’t lie down or you might fall asleep!) and closing your eyes. Try to clear your mind completely…no thinking about what else you should be doing, no wondering what time it is, no planning out your day. You are just being you in the moment. Some people use this time to pray or repeat a calming word or phrase. The purpose is to spend a few minutes in the company of yourself and to learn to accept who you are in that moment.

Try this daily for a week and see if you don’t notice a difference in how you think, feel, and act. I promise, it is worth investing the time to become a more contented you.
By: Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor