Mindfulness Training

With the word “mindfulness” we usually mean consciousness, the ability to observe, to be aware. It is the situation in which one focuses and is aware of what is happening in the present, in the “now” (Brown & Ryan, 2003), without criticism. Mindfulness is one of the elements of yoga and meditation and was developed in the East. The practice of mindfulness is now increasingly applied in the field of mental health and has evolved as an alternative treatment approach. According to various studies, mindfulness is ideal for depressive and anxiety disorders, for the treatment of chronic pain, for the treatment of substance abuse etc.

By practicing mindfulness we learn to pay attention to the present moment, the thoughts, the feelings, the body. This helps to cultivate an attitude of curiosity about what is inside of us and what is happening to us by observing it with openness. It is not a practice of relaxation to get away from the present but instead awakens us gently to it. Paying attention with serenity, acceptance and sobriety we come to a mental state that allows us to experience relaxation through vigilance. From this centre of mental peace we get to know ourselves and acquire the ability to consciously and intentionally choose our actions, that is, to act on our own values ​​and not to mechanically react to what is happening to us.

Here is a simple example of an exercise to increase mindfulness. This exercise may be simple but can have a strong effect. It helps to reconnect with the beauty of the natural environment and to enjoy small moments that hide a lot of meaning, which we usually let them go unnoticed.

Instructions:

  • Choose a physical object in your immediate environment and notice it by giving your full attention to it for 1-2 minutes, for example, a flower, an insect, the clouds or the moon.
  • Observe it as if you were seeing it for the first time. Allow it to monopolise your attention so that its presence absorbs you completely.
  • Feel the energy it radiates and its role and purpose in the physical world.
  • Observe the result of this simple experience on your body and your
  • In the same way we can observe sounds and smells.