Mindfulness

One of the techniques I like to use with my clients is Mindfulness. I have found mindfulness to be extremely helpful in my own life, especially during particularly stressful or chaotic times. By mindfulness, I am referring to staying in the moment and remaining “grounded”. It is a tool we can use to send a message to our brains that everything is okay!

There are several ways that I incorporate mindfulness into our sessions together, ranging from breathing exercises, paying attention to our senses (what we hear, see, smell, taste and feel) and walking outdoors.

Outside of counseling, there are so many simple (and free!) ways we can stay in the moment in order to reduce anxiety and stress. The sounds and sights of nature can help us with that. I have posted these videos for those who would like to watch as a way to focus on what you see and hear in the moment. While you are watching, I invite you to take three deep breaths and then ask yourself:

• What do I hear?
• What do I see?
• Can you close your eyes and imagine yourself in this place?
• What would the sun feel like on your skin?
• What would the wind feel like on your skin?
• What smells might you be noticing?

 

 

 

As the video comes to an end, I encourage you to take a second round of three deep, soothing breaths. If your eyes were closed, go ahead and open them and notice any changes in your body and mind.

My hope is that your mind feels calmer and perhaps more clear. I invite you to watch these videos as many times as you would like. If you are not near a device, you can also do this wherever you may be, by breathing, closing your eyes and simply paying attention to what you see, hear, smell and feel around you for just 30 seconds. Take three more deep breaths, open your eyes and notice any changes. If you can do this throughout your day, you are very likely to feel more calm and less stressed.

I hope this is helpful to you!