Linda Harris - Mindfulness for Beginners: How to Live in the Present Moment with Peace and Happiness

Mindfulness for Beginners

How to Live in the Present Moment with Peace and Happiness

Linda H. Harris

Text copyright 2018 Insight Health Communications - All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this book at the time of publication. The advice and training program contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. The author and publisher do not assume any legal liability or responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from the use of the information in this book.

The contents in this book are for information and educational purposes only. The opinions and suggestions in this book are not intended to replace professional advice. If you have concerns about your health, please consult a doctor.

Chapter 1: What Is Mindfulness? Understanding the Practice

T he art of practicing mindfulness has been embraced as an effective way to maintain balance in your life. It keeps you aware of the present moment, and enjoying each feeling, thought and condition as it is happening. According to Psychology Today, mindfulness means living in the moment. If you want to feel better and enjoy every experience that you're provided, it's important to be mindful. This does not have to be complicated. You simply have to understand the purpose and the best ways to achieve a state of mindfulness. Don't over think it and don't try too hard - that would completely oppose the beauty of living in a state of mindful awareness.

What is Mindfulness?

T o understand mindfulness , you need to understand the importance of your emotional life. Mindfulness is making an effort to pay attention. It's being present in each and every moment, without judgment or fear, and it requires you to allow each experience to happen. Awareness is critical. Remaining calm and reflective instead of active and pushy is also essential. When you're mindful, you're noticing the moment. You're noticing what is happening, how you feel and what the relevance of each moment and experience might be to the bigger picture of your life. That's all that is required of you to experience mindfulness. You don't have to change anything and you don't have to work on anything. You simply have to notice, be aware and be present.

The History of Mindfulness

T he historical origin of mindfulness is found in the Buddhist faith. Insightfulness is seen as a person's true reality and it allows for enlightenment and self-actualization. It was used to develop the intellect as well as the spirit and practicing Buddhists still use it to find inner peace.

Other religions have used transcendental meditation to assist in achieving mindfulness and in modern western cultures, it's being used to help people manage their stress and find more balance and meaning in their lives. The benefits of mindfulness are being explored on physical and mental levels. What was once considered "alternative" medicine is now becoming more mainstream, and even traditional doctors understand the importance of mindfulness in treating physical and mental conditions.

The Principles of Mindfulness

W hen you're feeling completely stressed out by life, employing the principles of mindfulness can be a huge asset in keeping you balanced and restoring peace. There are a number of principles that can help you understand mindfulness and how to use it to your advantage.

First, be open to new experiences. Approach your practice of mindfulness with the mind of a beginner, meaning that you're willing to forget or at least suspend everything you think you know.

Another principle that's important is to be non-judgmental. You don't want to judge yourself and you don't want to judge others. Instead, you will watch and accept that each experience and emotion has a purpose. Nothing you feel is good or bad - it simply is.

Acceptance is an important principle in mindfulness. You aren't going to try to force change or try to alter reality to fit what you want. Instead, you will observe and accept.

Commit to a principle of non-attachment. This means being able to let go of things, people, situations and experiences that are not meant to stick around. Attachment comes from fear and to be mindful, you need to trust the natural flow of life. Cling to nothing.

Perhaps you're still wondering - what is mindfulness? There's a lot to learn and explore. As long as you realize it begins with the quiet, calm appreciation of each moment, you're off to a good start.

Chapter 2: Why Practice Mindfulness? Knowing The Benefits

N ow that you know what mindfulness is, and how it can be achieved by existing in the present moment with peace and acceptance, you may be wondering: why practice mindfulness? The simple answer is that it's good for you. It's good for your physical health as well as your mental and emotional health. It will help you live a longer and happier life and you'll be better equipped to deal with any stress and anxiety that might try to barge into your life. Living in the present moment is important for a balanced life and increases your ability to recognize and appreciate the simple pleasures that life offers.