For the last couple of years I've taken a lot of time to focus on my mindfulness practice. This practice has shown up in different ways and has evolved as I've continued to grow and work on myself. And I find that by continuing to return to this idea of mindfulness I'm able to stay more present and grounded. But, what is mindfulness? The internet [social media] sometimes makes it seem like mindfulness is this toxic positivity, only happiness, "take time to breathe so you don't feel sad/bad feelings" type of thing... But I think that's an inaccuracy, or perhaps the "insta-worthy" version. For me, mindfulness is about coming back to the present moment; we can reflect on the past and hope for the future, but all we have is the present. Mindfulness is taking time to feel, notice, and mostly s l o w d o w n. We all experienced a very large, global slowing down last year and it helped a lot of people realize how fast we were moving through life. And even if you feel like you thrive in those fast-paced moments; it's important to take time to slow down. In my movement practice I often slow things down to ensure I have all the pieces in place before I challenge and encourage myself to try something more quickly. Because if you feel something slow, that's awesome, but life and movement can't always be slow. And by taking time to be intentionally slow through mindfulness, we are opening the space and allowing life to also be fast without it being detrimental to our mental + physical health. This idea of mindfulness also speaks to whole body health, routine, and practice. Mindfulness is great whenever, but it's even better when it's part of your routine - then it can become a ritualistic activity. Mindfulness and wellness as focuses have been about settling the anxieties I feel and the idea of coming back to my center goes hand in hand with my work as a movement educator. In high school I had a friend who began a meditation practice, and I remember being pretty confused because I had a clear picture in my head about what meditation is -- sitting cross legged with your eyes closed and perhaps entering a new realm -- and the idea of emptying ones thoughts seemed completely foreign and unattainable to me. And while that is one type of meditation (in a nutshell), I'm so glad that the idea of mindfulness meditation has become more prevalent because I think it's more accessible for the average person. If you've ever experienced a somatic practice (like yoga, Pilates, or even some dance classes), chances are you've done mindfulness work without really realizing it. I have a few favorite ways that mindfulness shows up in my life and I wanted to share one of my favorite activities in hopes that it helps you find enjoyment in slowing down and staying present. Below are instructions for a simple breathing / mindfulness exercise! I suggest reading through first, and then putting it to practice! Sit somewhere comfortable and without distractions, close your eyes or soften your gaze.
In case you're interested in taking this work further, but aren't quite ready to take your mindfulness practice on your own, here are a few of my favorite resources!
@thenapministry (rest as a form of resistance, and more on the history of slowing down) The Daily Shine Podcast (short guided meditations) Get Sleepy Podcast (bedtime stories that begin with a brief meditation to help you relax)
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AuthorAshlyn is a movement educator based in Nashville, TN. Archives
June 2022
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