A Guide To Daily Mindfulness

When you find yourself feeling totally stressed out -- whether you are home, at the office, or on a train -- take time to stop, breathe, and ground yourself in the present moment. Mindfulness is a practice that has roots in Eastern Buddhism, but has become common practice in Western psychology. Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, a world-renowned scientist, writer and meditation teacher has been integral in bringing mindfulness to mainstream society and medicine. Kabat-Zinn defines being mindful as “paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.” If you are being mindful, then you are existing on a moment-to-moment basis. You are not worrying about the past or the future. Here are tips that will help you become more mindful and less stressed.

Mindful Commuting

Whether you drive, take a train or ride a subway, commuting can be a stressful time of day. While you may want to get it done with as quickly as possible, try adding time to your commute instead so you can take it more slowly. Turn off the radio, and exist fully in the moment, wherever you are. Recognize the impermanence of things, and that everything, even stressers, come and go. When you notice yourself getting frustrated or triggered by others, acknowledge those thoughts without judgment, and then let them go. You can even use a metta (lovingkindness) meditation technique and wish your fellow travelers well, especially those who would normally cause you frustration. Commuting is also a great opportunity to practice gratitude.