Professional skier Aiden Sheahan talks about the value of mindfulness in Insight- Envisioning Before You Execute. Here's more about the concept of mindfulness and how you can bring it to your daily life.
Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.
Every individual naturally possesses mindfulness, so it does not require us to change who we are. Rather, there are simple activities we can practice in order to unlock and utilize these innate qualities. These practices are scientifically proven to benefit us in many ways. Mindfulness allows us to put space between ourselves and our reactions, calming our automatic responses. So, how do we practice?
Set aside some time.
You don’t need a meditation cushion or bench, or any sort of special equipment to access your mindfulness skills—but you do need to set aside some time and space.
Observe the present moment as it is.
The aim of mindfulness is not quieting the mind, or attempting to achieve a state of eternal calm. The goal is simple: we’re aiming to pay attention to the present moment, without judgment. Easier said than done, we know.
Let your judgments roll by.
When we notice judgments arise during our practice, we can make a mental note of them, and let them pass. Return to observing the present moment as it is. Our minds often get carried away in thought. That’s why mindfulness is the practice of returning, again and again, to the present moment.
Be kind to your wandering mind.
Don’t judge yourself for whatever thoughts come up, just practice recognizing when your mind has wandered off, and gently bring it back.
Practicing mindfulness is simple, but it is not easy. As with most things, repetition is the key to success.
This information comes from Mindful: Taking Time for What Matters.
