Mindfulness

A state in which a person takes on a moment-to-moment awareness of one’s experience without judgment and without reacting.

Mindfulness is simply an invitation to step out of the chaos of our busy lives and really focus on what we are doing, thinking, and feeling in this moment. This can be done in every aspect of your day, from playing with your children, listening to your partner tell you about their day, taking a walk outside, washing dishes, doing laundry, etc.

A Clear Mind

When you’re in a mindful state, things that would normally bother you won’t trigger past painful experiences in the same way. Mindfulness affects how you respond to stressful situations. It’s not about disconnecting from your true feelings; it’s about acknowledging and accepting them. Whether you feel happy, sad, or mad in that moment, mindfulness allows you to fully experience and accept those emotions.

More details can be found on the CMHA site here.

Breathe

When in a stressful situation, practice this breathing technique:

• Count to 4 while you slowly inhale
• Count to 4 while you hold your breath
• Count to 4 again while you exhale