As a type A, I have a lot of thoughts – overthinking, anticipating, planning. Throw in being furloughed due to a worldwide pandemic and my mind is off to the races trying to “fix” things. Not to mention the influx of information coming in is too much for any of us to handle.⠀
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I really needed a way to quiet my mind and thought meditation would be the answer. Turns out it was only part of the answer. ⠀
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Meditation is not about turning off our thoughts or feelings. Meditation is about awareness; the ability to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment and eventually, understanding them.⠀
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Mindfulness is about not only being present but also being engaged in the present moment. Mindfulness is where my answer lies. As Lao Tzu said, “If you are [sad], you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.”⠀
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Sometimes being in the present can be scary. So we distract ourselves thinking about the past or planning for the future. I know I am definitely guilty of this. During my furlough time, I am working on my mindfulness practice; being okay with the stillness and acknowledging moments throughout my day. A few of the things that have helped me be more mindful are⠀
✍🏼 Journaling⠀
🧘🏻♀️Meditating – check out the Smiling Mind app⠀
🏃🏻♀️Walking/Running outside (practicing social distancing)⠀
📵Using the DND feature on my phone⠀
💏Bonding with my fiance – any couples doing puzzles?⠀
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What do you do to stay mindful? Or could you use a little more mindfulness in your life?
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