How to Practice Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

Practicing mindfulness is a great way to focus on the present instead of dwelling in the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness allows you to pay attention to your body and your surroundings. Many people think of it as a time to “zone out”, but by being mindful and aware of yourself you can actually calm yourself in stressful situations. Using mindfulness to reduce stress is a great way to control your mind. When you’re in control then you won’t allow stress to occupy your mind and ruin your day. Read on to learn more about how to practice mindfulness for stress reduction.

Practice Mindfulness Daily

To be able to use mindfulness to reduce stress in any given situation you first have to know how to practice mindfulness. The best way to do this is to set aside time each day for this practice. Make sure that you won’t be interrupted. You may even want to take a class to learn more about mindfulness. Relax your body, allowing your mind to slow. Don’t focus on any particular thought that tries to enter your mind. Allow yourself to think about it, examine it, and let it go. If you find yourself beginning to worry about something then try to focus on your breathing instead.

Mindfulness in Ordinary Situations

Now that you have an understanding of mindfulness it’s time to practice it in calm situations. Slow down the next time you eat a meal, and really focus on how the food smells, tastes, and looks. Enjoy eat bite and think about the experience. You can also do this when you go outside. Spend time quietly, without talking, and really pay attention to the world around you.

Use Mindfulness to Reduce Stress

Once you can practice mindfulness in everyday situations then it’s time to apply it to stressful ones. Whenever you feel yourself getting stressed or anxious, focus on your breathing. Think about all of the different emotions you’re experiencing. Don’t judge them, but allow them to pass through your mind. When you practice mindfulness during stressful situations you will find that you can view the situation from a clearer point of view and in a non-judgmental light.

In order to reap mindfulness’ benefits in stressful situations, you first have to have an understanding of how to apply it to your everyday life. Once you can do that then you will find that you have control over stress and it will no longer rule your life.