MINDFULNESS


"Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally."(Jon Kabat-Zinn)

"Living your life from a consciousness-based perspective implies that you view every aspect of your life as meaningful, even sacred."   (Deepak Chopra)

"Mindfulness is the energy that helps us to be truly present.  When you are truly present, you are more in control of situations, you have more love, patience, understanding and compassion."
(Thich Nhat Hanh)

Without me realising it I have been thinking about and writing about 'mindfulness' for some time now.  I think people might have different beliefs as to what it actually is.  For me it is about trying to be in the present moment.  Being aware of one's breathing, connecting with the body, slowing down and acknowledging the moment for what it is.  

When it comes to being a mother I believe mindfulness is especially important.  As I've said many times in different ways in various posts, it is the times when I slow down and become mindful of the present moment with my children, this is the very essence of family life.  Those precious moments when I really choose to 'see' my children and connect with them.  Sometimes these moments occur quite naturally, sometimes I have to make a conscious effort to breathe and to accept the current moment for what it is, good or bad.

 This is mindfulness for me, this is what interests me, when I get it right it brings such joy. Of course, mindfulness is a practice, no one can be perfect at it (unless they are a truly enlightened being).  So, I'm practicing being mindful, I try every day as much as I can, it really is so worth it.

Further reading;
'The Power of Now' Eckhart Tolle

'A New Earth' Eckhart Tolle

Anything by Deepak Chopra, he's quite a prolific writer

'The Miracle of Mindfulness' Thich Nhat Hanh

'Wherever you go there you are.' Jon Kabat-Zinn

'Mindfulness: A practical guide to finding peace in a frantic world' Mark Williams & Danny Penman

'Everyday Blessings: The inner work of mindful parenting' Myla and Jon Kabat-Zinn

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