What is Mindfulness Meditation and a 5 Step How-To Guide

Mindfulness meditation is one of many types of meditation and the main focus of this practice is experiencing the present.

Why live in the present?

Well, there are many benefits to living in the present and fortunately, the practice of mindfulness meditation allows you to live in the moment so you can reap these benefits.

So what exactly is mindfulness meditation?

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that concentrates on being 100% present. As mindfulness is practiced more and more, it becomes easier to be present in any given situation or moment in time (and it’s when we’re truly present that we experience life!).

With this meditation practice, you don’t try to change your thoughts or your feelings. Rather, you let them “be” while you experience the here and now. Acknowledge your thoughts and noises, take in the smells, and truly experience your present without judgment.

Mindfulness meditation is widely practiced by Buddhist monks. It allows them to connect with their inner self and fosters self-awareness. The good news is that it will do the same for you, so next time your head is rushing with thoughts or you feel disconnected from yourself, take 10 minutes to sit and “be”. It’s the best way to re-connect with your true self!

Here are 5 simple steps that will help you with your mindfulness meditation practice:

1. Sit in a comfortable, relaxed position.
2. Make sure nothing will interrupt you. Turn off your phone, shut of the tv and close your laptop!
3. Allow yourself to become deeply present and aware of your surroundings.
4. Take deep breaths and begin to unwind.
5. Acknowledge your thoughts, your worries, your fears but don’t get caught up in over analyzing what comes to mind. Take in your surroundings. Listen to the noises, smell the aromas and be truly present. Fully experience what’s happening at this point in time.

Designate 10 minutes a day to this practice and follow these simple 5 steps. The results will astound you!