Tag Archives: Issue 20130314

Keep stress in check by practicing mindfulness

Between busy workdays and our personal lives, most of us spend too much time feeling stressed out. One great way to manage stress and anxiety is through practicing mindfulness.

Meditation is one of the most common ways to practice mindfulness, and though it takes time to learn properly, even beginners can benefit from it. But there are other simple ways to become more mindful, as well. Wellness coach Elizabeth Scott recommends basic deep breathing:

That’s right: mindfulness can be as simple as breathing! Seriously, though, one of the most simple ways to experience mindfulness, which can be done as you go about your daily activities (convenient for those who feel they don’t have time to meditate), is to focus on your breathing. Breathe from your belly rather than from your chest, and try to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Focusing on the sound and rhythm of your breath, especially when you’re upset, can have a calming effect and help you stay grounded in the present moment. (See this article for more on breathing exercises.)

You can see more of Scott’s tips and ideas here. Take a few minutes and check them out. They’re well worth the time and energy a little mindfulness can save you later.