Mindfulness

Mindfulness, which can be defined in different ways, includes practice in receiving the present moment with openness and a calm nervous system, so we can respond to life from a place of inner balance and nourishment, rather than ego or fear. Countless research shows the positive effects of mindfulness on mental and physical health. For examples of this, check out Mindfulness meditation: A research-proven way to reduce stress by the American Psychological Association and Effects of Mindfulness on Psychological Health: A Review of Empirical Studies.

While there is a spiritual element to mindfulness, you can explore this technique through the lens of any religious belief or nonbelief. By spiritual, I mean perhaps something beyond human language or understanding. It is like the sensation of zooming out to the larger picture of life, whatever that might be, while also zooming in to find deep connection within our tiny hearts. It is very quiet and simple, a sense of being held and loved in that big and small way—and having endless reserves for being loving, in the face of all the loss inherent to living. This is how I would describe the spiritual aspect of mindfulness, but each person has their own experience, which is what makes this journey so interesting and beautiful.

I started exploring mindfulness over twenty years ago, as a high school student, in response to the painful loss of a family friend. While struggling with how to live peacefully in a world where pain and uncertainty is unavoidable, I found these practices to be extremely helpful. Since then, I have continued to cultivate mindfulness living through guided meditations, breath work, yoga, qigong, and most recently (after the devastating loss of my beautiful sister), I began Transcendental Meditation. I have found mindfulness practices to be a guiding light that can help resilience grow from the deepest of pain.

Many different routes can lead to cultivating mindfulness, and I help people to discover what works for them. I usually start with teaching breath work and simple mantras that can help us feel present in our physical bodies. Another example is spending five minutes outside, while letting our gaze slowly scan the visual details around us. Both of these small practices can help to calm our nervous system, which can lead to a decrease in frantic thoughts and bring us closer to a deeper awareness of our strengths and widen our perspective.  

It would be an honor to help you on your mindfulness journey, whether you are just starting out or need encouragement to continue!