Daily Detox: Mindfulness

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction is a western term for what many people simply call meditation. Meditation can take many forms, but for me, it a chance to clear the mind, recenter, and open myself to spiritual and mental growth. Mindfulness brings me back to the present moment and teaches me how to 'be here now.'

There is a new study out showing the brain science of meditation. There is some level of scientific proof revealing what ancient practitioners have said all along: that meditation increases memory and empathy, changes sense of self, and reduces stress and anxiety.

I've experienced this in varying ways, whether at a retreat, in yoga class, or in personal study here and there. I've always wanted to delve deeper. The perfectionism post awhile back reflected my handling of this goal--one more thing on the to-do list that wouldn't get done unless I could do it completely. Pretty unrealistic, though.

At the recommendation of a mother I work with, I picked up A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Workbook in hope of learning new ways to integrate this practice into my busy life. It's sat by my bedside for weeks now, waiting for me to be 'ready,' whatever that means. My mind has gotten busier and busier over the last few months, and picking up this discipline has seemed too daunting. Yesterday, though, lovely instructor Lisa at Cityoga integrated a simple 5 minute meditation into our slow flow class. It was so peaceful, and quite possible at my level of mind-clutter. That evening, when I offered up my excuse of a too-busy mind to allow me to practice regularly, a good friend called me out and reminded me that it's probably just the right time to start.

So, I'm starting! Time to detox my crazy noggin and refocus on the present. I'm taking a few minutes this evening to go beyond browsing the pages of this book and begin to study mindfulness in a new way. I'm hoping to increase the calm in my life and give my body a break from tension and anxiety. I'm hoping for deeper spiritual understanding and stronger connection to the world and the Divine. I'm hoping to learn a bit about myself and become a better person for the people around me. But first, I have to allow myself the time to practice. I'll let you know how it goes.