The practice of mindfulness is an effective method for improving mental and physical health. In recent years, scientific research has found that mindfulness-based interventions can help with various issues, including anxiety, stress, depression, pain, addiction, and even immunity. But how does mindfulness work, and how can you get started?
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a mental practice involving intentionally focusing on one’s present moment experiences with open acceptance of whatever arises in the experience. It effectively reduces stress levels and increases well-being by allowing an individual to become aware of their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. This practice helps to cultivate an inner stillness that will enable individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings objectively rather than reacting impulsively or becoming overwhelmed by them.
Science Behind Mindfulness
Research has found that mindfulness can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression as it may lead to changes in the brain structures and activity associated with attentional and emotion regulation. Sara Lazar, Harvard Medical School associate professor, has conducted extensive research on the effect of mindfulness meditation on the brain. Her findings have shown that regular mindful meditation creates new neural pathways to improve the brain’s ability to regulate emotions.
The Benefits of Mindfulness
Mindful awareness can help us to become more aware of our thoughts and feelings in the present moment, enabling us to respond rather than react to stressful situations. Research has shown that mindfulness techniques like yoga and meditation have been associated with a significant reduction in stress levels. In addition, studies have found that mindfulness can help improve concentration, reduce rumination (repeatedly thinking about past experiences or worries), and increase psychological well-being.
How to Get Started
Getting started on the road to practicing mindfulness is easier than ever before. One can find mindfulness classes and interventions in various settings, including yoga centers, athletic clubs, hospitals, and clinics. Participating in online mindfulness-based interventions or utilizing smartphone apps is also possible.
However, just like any other skill, one needs to practice mindfulness regularly to make it a natural part of their daily routine. According to Katherine Cullen, a licensed psychotherapist at Juniper Therapeutic Services, those just getting started practicing mindfulness may find it quite uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking. It takes some time to become accustomed to the technique. There are no right or wrong ways of practicing mindfulness; it is simply a matter of experimenting with different methods until you find one that suits your needs.
As individuals practice mindfulness, they will be able to cultivate an increased level of self-awareness and emotional regulation. This can help them to become more mindful of their thoughts and feelings, enabling them to respond more calmly when faced with difficult situations. Studies have found that mindfulness can help reduce stress levels and improve overall short-term and long-term well-being.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, it is important to remember that everyone’s experience practicing mindfulness will be unique. It is best to take it one step at a time, starting with short sessions and then gradually increasing the duration as your comfort level increases. With practice, you will be able to use mindfulness as an effective tool for relieving anxiety and stress, and improving overall wellness.
