Mindfulness: Learn to Relax
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Guest post, category Mindfulness: courtesy of Doctor Anytime México. Traslated by Alex Perez
The lack of movement during the months of confinement and the uncertainty of when we will be able to return to our normal life are factors that have caused many people to suffer from stress or anxiety. Although probably not everything that is discussed about anxiety refers to a disorder, it is named and given a place. Consequently, there is a greater interest in these two conditions and how they can be controlled with the help of a specialist or by practicing mindfulness despite the adverse situations that still arise in these pandemic months.
Because many people have started having therapy, specialists have made known mindfulness, one of the best treatments for people who suffer from stress and anxiety. Read on to learn a little more about this type of therapy and how it helps.
Let’s talk about mindfulness and its benefits
Mindfulness is a state of attention that derives from the capacity of human beings. This state allows us to be aware of the thoughts, emotions, beliefs, meanings, attitudes, and results of our minds.
Mindfulness can be cultivated as it is practiced. It consists of being fully aware of the here and now, accepting what is being experienced and feeling, trying to be free of worries, anticipations and without making interpretations or judgments of situations or thoughts.
Mindfulness practice combines meditation with self-awareness. That is, the more aware we are, the fewer situations that were previously annoying will affect us. Generally, people who begin to practice mindfulness act less reactive to situations.
How is mindfulness practiced?
It is done with controlled breaths, a posture where the back is completely straight, focusing on the sensations of the body and mind, as well as visualizations that are sometimes guided.
How does mindfulness help eliminate stress and anxiety?
The exercises that are practiced in mindfulness are those that help eliminate stress. This is because it helps to control emotions and thoughts. It also alleviates the suffering of the day to day and this impacts relationships with others. It can also involve the practitioner in immediate experiences of the present, being in contact with reality, with the world that surrounds him, that is why it has been very efficient for many people.
Now, anxiety and stress are feelings that produce physical and emotional tension that derive from situations or thoughts that make us feel nervous, angry, afraid, or frustrated. These are normal reactions of the body and mind that have learned to cope with situations that represent a challenge or greater demand for energy.
As such, mindfulness focuses on learning to be fully aware of everything that happens to us, to experience every detail, concentrating on the sensations of the present. By being aware of breathing and body sensations, we are able to identify situations that cause tension and discomfort, observe them clearly, embrace emotions and manage them better.
Mindfulness can bring many benefits both mentally and physically. It is also advisable to combine mindfulness with a conscious lifestyle that includes a healthy diet with exercise and adequate sleep hygiene, as these are key to eliminating stress.
The Harvard Gazette.edu: Less stress, clearer thoughts with mindfulness meditation
Mindful.org: What is Mindfulness?
Psychology Today.com: Mindfulness
