Mindfulness has become a buzzword in today’s fast-paced world.
You’ve probably heard people talk about it and may even have a general idea of what it is, but do you really know what it means to live a mindful life?
As someone who has experienced the transformative power of mindfulness firsthand, allow me to shed some light on this powerful practice.
My Journey
Let me take you back to a time when my life was in chaos.
Just over ten years ago, I was a successful Global Head of HR, excelling in my career but struggling in my personal life. Little did I know that my ADHD mind was wreaking havoc on my ability to find peace, relax, and recharge. Additionally, I had experienced trauma in my relationships, which left me feeling a deep sense of shame.
In an attempt to cope, I threw myself into work, thinking that it would provide the solace I desperately needed. In the short term, it seemed to work and I received the benefits, but deep down, I knew something was missing.
In my quest for healing, I tried countless strategies and techniques. Some worked temporarily, but amoung the most transformative, was one practice that truly transformed my life: mindfulness. I vividly remember attending my first mindfulness class and becoming aware of heartburn rising up my stomach and throat a sensation I had never noticed before. At first, I was angry and frustrated. How could something as simple as paying attention to the present moment bring up discomfort?
But little did I know that this discomfort was simply a gateway to the healing journey that lay ahead.
What is Mindfulness then?
Contrary to what some may say, mindfulness is not all about love, light, and unicorns. It takes you on a profound journey through the darkest parts of your emotions that you have long repressed. It forces you to confront the pain that you have locked away and confront the shame that you have hidden from. It invites you to acknowledge all that has held you back and then offers you the opportunity to accept and release it.
One of the greatest gifts that mindfulness offers is emotional resilience. By practicing mindfulness, we learn to sit with our emotions and observe them without judgment. Rather than being consumed by thoughts of the past or worries about the future, we learn to fully engage with the present moment and find joy in each experience as it unfolds.
Just starting out?
For those who are just starting their mindfulness journey, it can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin? The good news is that mindfulness is accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of experience. Here are a few simple steps to get you started:
1. Begin with your breath: Notice the sensation of your breath as it enters and leaves your body. Focus your attention solely on the breath, letting go of any thoughts or distractions that arise.
2. Engage your senses: Take a moment to fully experience your surroundings using your five senses. What do you see, hear, smell, taste, and touch? Engaging your senses brings you into the present moment and grounds you in reality.
3. Practice non-judgmental awareness: As thoughts arise, observe them without judgment. Rather than getting caught up in the content of your thoughts, simply observe them as they come and go, like clouds passing in the sky.
4. Cultivate gratitude: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This simple practice shifts your focus from what is lacking to the abundance that already exists in your life.
Remember, mindfulness is not a destination, but a lifelong journey. It is a practice that requires patience, self-compassion, and consistency. With time, you will begin to experience the transformative power of mindfulness in your own life.
So, if you find yourself juggling life and business, like me and struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, or ADHD symptoms, I encourage you to explore the world of mindfulness.
It has the potential to open doors you never thought possible and lead you to a life of inner peace, freedom, fun, and flow.
Embrace the healing journey, my friend, and may mindfulness guide you towards the love and acceptance you deserve.
Need more help?
If you're ready to begin your journey, I have a very special free Beginners Guide to Mindfulness available to download here https://stan.store/risingfierce/p/experience-with-the-power-of-mindfulness
