The start of a new year can inspire and motivate us to improve our health with diet and exercise. However, the importance of looking after our mental health is more prudent than ever. Our bodies and minds are, of course, not separate. Physical improvements will have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. But what techniques can we implement to concentrate solely on the way our brains work?
The human mind is very good at getting itself stuck in vicious cycles of negative thoughts, self-doubt, worries, resentments and fears which sap our strength leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. This repetition of a negative pattern of thoughts becomes a habit which eventually becomes a trait.
Practising mindfulness consists of the following: take a breath and focus on your breathing, blocking out all other distractions the best you can. This will help to physically calm the nervous system. Pause, relax your arms, settle in your seat, leave whatever you’re doing. The aim is not to stop the negative thoughts or push them away; the aim is to bring awareness to your other senses such as what you can see, hear, feel and smell. The negative thoughts will still be there, but they are on the side-lines rather than the main event. This process can take as little as a couple of minutes but if implemented throughout the day whenever needed, the impact can be noticeable.
Your thoughts are just thoughts- they’re not necessarily true or accurate. Smile at your mind’s chaos and carry on with your day, choosing awareness and mindfulness the best you can. Focusing on the things to be grateful for is a fantastic way to adjust the chemical balances within your brain. When you wake up in the morning, internally list the things you are grateful for. This can be a humbling exercise.
The Minster Press
