Article by Linda Schuler, LPC

Do you practice Mindfulness? If not, seriously you must. It is an ancient practice and now research indicates that the practice builds a healthier, stronger, more compassionate brain and thus human. It is simple and complex. At the foundation is consciously noticing the sensation of your breath periodically throughout the day. Paying attention to something that is automatic requires focus as the mind drifts. In addition, Mindfulness means paying attention to the attitudes in your life.

The Mindfulness Stress Reduction Program (MBSR) was developed in the 1970’s at MIT under the tutelage of Jon Kabat-Zinn (JKZ). It is a non-secular, westernized interpretation of Buddhism. Currently it is an evidenced based tool in the field of Psychology. Mindfulness defined by JKZ is, paying attention to the present moment, without judgement. Mindfulness is a way of being. In order to cultivate this way of being one may practice meditation.

Meditation means focused attention upon. Cooking, gardening, playing an instrument, worrying can all be meditative practices. In Mindful Meditation, one’s focused attention is upon the sensation of one’s breath, whilst embracing the 9 attitudes. Formally and informally. Each day, one takes at least 22,000 breaths and may have more than 70,000 thoughts.

What is your focused attention upon? Take time each day, to pause, and consciously notice the sensation of our breath moving in and out of your body without judgment. Allow your thoughts to merely be. Smile. Those simple actions will help build the neurons in your brain.

by Linda Schuler, LPC

Linda Schuler, LPC is a therapist in Galloway, New Jersey. Linda offers services in person at our Galloway location and online through our HIPAA compliant platform. She supports adolescents, children, couples, families, adult individuals, as they navigate anxiety, anger management, chronic illness, parenting, and spiritual awakenings. To schedule an appointment click here.

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