Mindfulness and Living in the Present: 5 Simple Shifts That Can Transform Your Outlook and Bring More Peace
Often times while we as humans are simply just trying to navigate in the world, negativity can make its disruption, sometimes throwing us ‘off rhythm’. Others’ bad vibes; what we see or hear about; work and relationship conflicts – it can be draining and if given too much attention to the negative thoughts, they can lead to negative emotions, which in turn have the potential to lead to negative actions or decisons.
Throughout my mental health journey, I’ve found the beauty, and really simplicity, in being present in the moment, and have reaped the wonderful benefits of mindfulness techniques through practice. As the saying goes, ‘if you go looking for a reason to be mad, you’ll alway find one’. This applies to any negative emotion that can consume a person.
When it comes to being mindful and living in the present, I want to share 10 simple shifts that can help transform your outlook so that you can have more peace, the peace you deserve.
Live in your world only
Someone has said or done something mean or negative to all of us, and chances are it won’t be the last time.
Having the ability to not entertain anyone’s negativity is important. Realize that often times people are just projecting, so always remember that it isn’t a reflection of you – it’s a reflection of them.
Getting your mind off the situation and doing something else, especially a hobby or something soothing, is a great way to stay in your world, not anyone else’s.
Take notice of the simple things
This is helpful and peaceful when you’re outdoors, so I encourage getting outdoors somewhere, even if it’s just down the street or a nearby park. Simply noticing your surroundings is a good way to be present and enjoy the present moment.
A helpful mindfulness technique I learned is to point out 5 things I notice, one for each of my senses: what I see, hear, smell, feel and taste (if applicable).
This may be a good method for you to try as well!
Take a moment to Be Thankful for What You Have
This might look different for everyone, but I always found that when I thought things were bad for me, there was always someone that had it worse, and by shifting my perspective to appreciate what I do have, I’ve been able to be thankful for even the things I thought had little meaning.
I find that self-reflection and focusing more on the positive things has helped me shift towards a more positive light when needed.
Limit yourself to people or things that are draining you and direct that energy towards self-care
If you’re like me, there’s a ton of things that, if consumed too much, can start to be draining. This can be different for everyone – social media, the news, other people, etc. I find that limiting ‘available space’ can be effective when staying grounded and relaxed, and I’ll direct that space towards my hobbies or my self-care routine.
Setting boundaries, even with friends and family, is healthy and often times necessary. Limiting yourself on the social media apps and news might even be necessary and beneficial. There are apps in the Apple and Android store that allow you to limit social media by connecting your account – it may be worth looking into it!
Ultimately, everyone is entitled to their peace of mind, and in no way should anyone be obligated to compromise that for any person or thing. Do what’s best for you! It might make others upset, but a reasonable and caring person should understand. Self-care isn’t selfish.
Pets
Last but not least, our furry (or scaled) family members!
This is my favorite mindfulness activity. Being around our pets and their unconditional love is a good reminder that no matter what, we’re loved, adored and admired.
A walk in the park, on a hike in nature, or any other adventure can be absolutely therapeutic and I highly recommend using the 5 senses mindfulness technique while you’re out on your next adventure.
Wrap-Up
Mindfulness practice has been a long-standing technique used by many to support mental wellbeing and staying grounded, and these were just a few techniques I wanted to share that I’ve found to help me on my journey. It’s easier said than done, but developing the ability to brush off negativity from others will go a long way, and it’s important to understand that it’s often times projections.
Never feel obligated to compromise your mental wellbeing for others or things. Your doing what’s best for yourself and it’s never selfish. Reasonable and respectful people will understand that. Setting boundaries may be necessary at times, but it will help maintain healthy relationships and further help preserve your ‘available space’ so you can stay at your best.
Nature has a lot to offer. The world is a big place and even just going to the local park can be an adventure in itself and help you stay in the present moment. What’s even better is bringing your four-legged family members with you! Thanks for stopping and I hope to see you on the next article.
–Cheers!
