Starting Mindfulness

Have you wanted to try mindfulness but thought it's not for you? 

A common reason for not trying mindfulness is thinking your mind is too busy.

If this is one of the things stopping you…

Then mindfulness is for you!

Mindfulness helps slow down your mind, by training your brain to become aware of the thoughts. 

Once you have noticed the thoughts, you can let them pass and return your focus to your chosen anchor. This could be your breathing, senses, or activity.

You're not the only person with a busy mind, so don't worry. 

The majority of people have a mind full of thoughts, myself included. Don't let that stop you from trying something new. 

You can switch from having a full mind to being mindful by quieting your thoughts. 

When you become more mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and actions, you can start releasing stress and exhaustion. This means you can create a calmer mental space and feel more connected to your looking after your wellbeing. 

Beginners Mindset

Being a beginner to an activity can feel exciting and daunting at the same time. However, once you try the activity you'll probably feel more confident and want to try it again.

Earlier this month, I saw two people at different ages and stages in life learning how to ride a bike. 

The first was an older woman, on what looked like her grandson's bike. The boy was firmly holding onto her as he guided her along while she pedalled.

This was the first time I had witnessed a moment like that before. It was a beautiful experience to watch. 

The second was a family who were teaching their young son, who looked around 4 years old, how to ride a bike.

For both learners they would have experienced different feelings and emotions from each other. At the same time, they would likely have some similar feelings.

There is a term called ‘common humanity’, which Kirsten Neff explains that recognising common humanity encompassed by self-compassion allows individuals to be more understanding and less judgemental about their inadequacies.

In relation to being a beginner, there will always be someone having a similar experience to you. Keeping this is in mind can remind you that you aren't the only one who “doesn't know how” to do the activity yet.

I included the word ‘yet’ as it can feel easy to think “I can’t” or “I don't know” as reasons for not trying something. Therefore, by adding ‘yet’ to the end it is a powerful way to remember that you can learn. 

I share this with you to highlight that there is never a time in life when it's is too late to be a beginner. 

Everyone learns at a different pace and your experience is unique to you. 

Are you a parent looking to start a mindfulness journey this year?

Whether you have tried mindfulness before or not it isn't something that has a definitive end.

Practising bringing your awareness and attention to each present moment is a lifelong journey.

Especially in the fast paced world we live in.

In my new eBook, Mindful Living: A Guide for You and Your Family, you'll discover how you can slow down in your everyday life.

Download today for only £7.99 before the price increases on 29/8/24, get your copy here.

A paperback version will be coming out early September too.

Lastly, when you subscribe to my Substack you'll receive updates and mindful living posts straight to your inbox. Find out more here.