2 Modern Mindfulness Practices

Raise your hand if your brain likes to overthink, multi-task, and play devil's advocate!
*raises hand* 

Did you know your thinking is using up energy? 
Our brains use up energy, calories, and time!
All... that... thinking… All that time, focus, and repetition of thought.
Your energy is a valuable resource.  Are you spending it wisely?

Did you know what we’re focused on we’re technically asking for more of?
Law of attraction baby!

Maybe you read this and think, “oh wow!!! ...oh, fuck.”
I can relate.

This is why mindfulness is SO important, especially RIGHT NOW in a pandemic when there is sooo much extra stuff to worry about and consider.

mind·ful·ness 
/ˈmīn(d)f(ə)lnəs/

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 without judgment.

When we identify with thoughts and feelings, judgment comes out to play. 

• Am I good enough? Did I make them mad? I am depressed. I can’t handle it. I..I...I….I…..I…. 
  And here we are anyway.

When we witness thoughts and feelings, we can more easily practice radical acceptance.

• Ah, I made a mistake this time. If I offended them perhaps we can talk through it. There is depression here, where can I offer myself compassion and love? 

We are learning to use our thoughts and our identity in such a way that benefits us and those around us. All that time, energy and focus can be used to soothe, enthuse, and serve you!

Two Simple Practices

Focus on your breath
A simple practice is to sit for 1-5 minutes and notice your breath. 
Sit tall and comfortably.
Notice the upper belly while you inhale and exhale.
Think the words, “inhale… exhale…” as you breath.
Notice the pause at the top and the pause at the bottom.
Notice when a thought carries you away and then come back.
“When you notice you’re gone you are already almost back” -Krishna Das
Allow it.

Mantra Practice
Find a mantra or phrase that brings you comfort and connection to something greater.
Repeat it again and again.

Mantra can be used formally, within a meditation practice or informally while you’re washing dishes.
It is something to replace the chitta or “monkey brain” that is zapping your energy away and causing suffering (judgment). 

Some examples:
“I am loving awareness” (reminder love (and accept) all that I am aware of (everything))
“I am safe, loved and whole”

Others might use Sanskrit words which is a beautiful language that focuses on vibration.
“Om Namah Shivaya” (intended to call upon the highest, purest Self)
“So Hum” (I am that, acknowledging all is connected)
“Sat Nam” (I am Truth)
Either practice you try-
give it time and patience.

We can also work together to help you build a practice that is unique to you and your needs AND gives you accountability as you set off on this journey.