History of Mindfulness
All of us have heard of it. It seems to be that latest buzzword that is on everyone's minds. Mindfulness. But what is it and why is it so important? The Oxford English dictionary defines Mindfulness as:
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, used as a therapeutic technique.
Mindfulness comes from sati, and element of Buddhist traditions. The Buddhist definition of mindfulness is :
How past, present and future moments arise and cease as momentary sense impressions and mental phenomena.
In the 1970s, mindfulness was adopted by psychologists and have gone on to develop program and practices. These practices in programs have been used in a number of institutions such as prisons, schools, hospitals, veterans' centers, etc..
What are the benefits of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is used by mental health experts to reduce depression, stress, anxiety and drug addiction. Clinical studies have shown a positive relationship between mindfulness and psychological health. Mindfulness has also shown to to benefit physical health as stress has physiological effects on the body. Practicing Mindfulness has also been linked to a healthy immune system and inflammation. Mindfulness has also been proven to promote empathy and compassion.
How Can I Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can be practiced doing anything. It's really just about focusing doing whatever task you are doing. For example in the car you may focus the road ahead, the way the steering wheel feels in your hand and the way the tires sound on the road. But maybe you are new to mindfulness and need that little push to get you started. Here are the most common ways mindfulness is practiced.
Meditation
Meditation is what most people think of when they hear mindfulness. Meditation is all about being in the present moment and focusing on the sensations in your body and emotions. We offer individualized and group meditation sessions with Cheryl that you can book on our website.
Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese form of energy healing. According to The Mindfulness Center, "The purpose is to promote relaxation and stress reduction, restore balance, eliminate blockages, support the immune system, and foster all around healing and well-being. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit". You can book a Reiki appointment with Jack on our website.
Yoga
Yoga is all about harnessing the mind while engaging in physical movement. It incorporates awareness of breath and body to connect you mind, body and spirit. We offer group yoga classes two days a week as well as individualized yoga sessions that you can book with Shana on our website.
Tai Chi
The Mayo Clinic definition of Tai Chi is as follows: "Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing". Tai Chi is similar to yoga in that it is a meditative exercise, but does not incorporate breathing or meditation.