Mindfulness is...
...paying attention, on purpose, with open curiosity, to the unfolding of the present moment. When we practice observing ourselves (reconnecting mind with body), moment to moment, we soften our habitual reactivity & develop the ability to respond to any situation with more clarity & freedom of choice.
Relaxation is...
...integrating & harmonizing body, mind, & heart to facilitate the “Relaxation Response” (Rest-Digest-and-Repair), which is the opposite of our usual mode, the “Stress Response” (Fight-Flight-or-Freeze). When your body & heart-mind are relaxed, there is space for natural flow & healing.
Start now with one deep belly breath.
Practicing mindfulness & relaxation can help you:
The only challenge is making the time to regularly do the "work" of practicing mindfulness & relaxation. Formal practice helps you build your skill & inner awareness.
- Harmonize your heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, nervous system, & digestion
- Regulate inflammation & immune response
- Navigate illness, chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, depression, & stress
- Suppress your genetic predisposition to illness & disease (epigenetics)
- Slow the breakdown of telomeres (which protect your chromosomes) to slow aging
- Increase neuroplasticity, creating new brain connections & improved cognitive function
- Build stress resilience & increase your capacity for joy & well-being
The only challenge is making the time to regularly do the "work" of practicing mindfulness & relaxation. Formal practice helps you build your skill & inner awareness.
Choose a practice you enjoy.
And then use your skill to navigate the unfolding of every moment, so you can...