Some days, life and even ourselves don’t always make it easy to take time out for a period of meditation and mindfulness. We are working 40 plus hours a week, in school full-time, studying, busy with families, appointments, and other activities. So, when you have multiple different things going on and pop up in your life, practicing mindfulness tends to get overlooked and put on the back burner. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.

When you get to the core of it, mindfulness is where you are aware of the world around you and can focus and observe the moment. You use your senses, energy, and focus when engaging in activities. Mindfulness has been shown to have multiple benefits, including better sleep, less anxiety, and improvement in moods.

There are some things you can do to increase mindfulness throughout your busy day.

Refocus scattered thoughts:

To stop thinking of everything you have to do, what is waiting, and anything that is overwhelming and clouding your mind. Refocus your thoughts and think about what you have to be grateful for, or a goal that you are working towards.

Eat balanced meals:

Eating a lot of sugary and fatty foods can affect our emotions, health, and energy. Eating healthier and balanced meals from the food groups can improve energy and alertness. When you are having your lunch break or a snack, do not do any work, sit or stand there and enjoy the meal and break taking at the moment.

Commuting to work:

If you take the bus or walk, there are plenty of things you can do during the commute to focus and re-center before you start your busy day. You can read a book, listen to a podcast, music, and practice mindful breathing.

Driving to work:

While focusing on your driving to work, you can listen to music, podcasts, or an audiobook. When you come to stop lights, you can do your mindful breathing while waiting for the light to turn green.

Pause before you sleep:

When you are sitting on your bed with your feet are still planted on the floor, take 5 minutes to focus on your breathing and letting your busy mind/thoughts dissolve before you turn in for the night.

Until next time, take care of yourselves.

Sarah Wylde