(Day 16)
30 Days of Self-Care Information and Strategies – Kristin Cowart, MSW, LCSW
“A wandering mind is an unhappy mind,” according to researcher Matt Killingsworth who designs studies that gather data on happiness. When are we most happy? When we are lost in the moment. Watch “Want to be happier? Stay in the moment” (10 min). If you are looking for more, check out the short blog, The power of daydreams: 4 studies on the surprising science of mind-wandering.
Some studies suggest that mindfulness may actually be a promising solution for mind wandering. Mindfulness practices can help us to increase our ability to regulate emotions, decrease stress, anxiety and depression. It can also help us to focus our attention and teach us how to observe our own thoughts and feelings without judgment. Learn more about the research, health benefits and advantages of integrating mindfulness at 23 Amazing Health Benefits of Mindfulness for Body and Brain The 5 Most Common Benefits of Mindfulness.
One final thought…consistent practice is really important but starting something new can feel overwhelming. In this article Dr. Amit Sood, the chair of the Mayo Mind Body Initiative, provides the following mindfulness weekly outline which is a great place to start.
- Monday: Gratitude – Find things to be thankful for throughout your day, and include them in your loving kindness meditation or a gratitude journal
- Tuesday: Compassion – Set an intention to decrease any pain or suffering in others that you encounter throughout your day
- Wednesday: Acceptance – Accept yourself as you are and others as they are; appreciate yourself and other people without trying to change them
- Thursday: Meaning and Purpose – Think about your ultimate purpose in life, and where and how you find meaning
- Friday: Forgiveness – Forgive yourself first, then extend your forgiveness to others for any past transgressions
- Saturday: Celebration – Make sure to take a day to celebrate all the joy in your life and the lives of others
- Sunday: Reflection – Reflect on your week, your month, your year, or whatever period of time makes sense to you at the moment. This can be accomplished through meditation, prayer, or simple awareness
