Mindfulness made its way into various cultures during the ancient times and has only been accepted by western psychology with more clinical practitioners recognizing the importance it plays for psychological health. I became familiar with the practice of mindfulness at a very early age as my parents are both life-long avid practitioners; their success has inspired my own.

I understand how difficult it is to incorporate a new practice into daily life, so I’ve created a two-part series on the concept. Here’s part two:

  1. Research the things that make you relax. No two people are the same, even twins. What will calm one person might make another incredible uncomfortable. So, take all of the advice you receive (even mine!) with a grain of salt and do a little R&D on what makes you zen. For me, I find a quiet day home helps me to mentally and physically revive myself. Sometimes that’s important when faced with a busy week ahead.
  2. Face the to-do list with a positive mentality; knowing that the best you can do is “one thing at a time.” Task-switching, aka multitasking, is not a productive way to spend your time. Sometimes it’s the only option – if you’re behind on work and need to keep many people happy. But, you’ll find it’s best to focus on one task at a time – doing what you can in that singular moment before moving on to the next thing.
  3. Take it easy on yourself when it comes to dieting and physical appearance. Remember that it’s important to diet mindfully. If you’re generally eating healthy, making time for a healthy dose of exercise and leisure, your mind and body will naturally crave what they need. Don’t fight those urges. If chocolate is on your mind, eat it – enjoy it. You body says so.
  4. Begin to appreciate life for what it is — a gift. Relish in the moments of day-to-day life and express some sort of gratitude for the opportunities you’re afforded – as opposed to focusing on what you don’t have. Wherever you’re at now is exactly where you’re meant to be.
  5. Let go, and let it happen. It’s nearly pointless to worry about things that are completely outside of your control. Instead, focus on putting your energy towards other productive things that are not only within your control but progressive to your development and future.

You can read part one of the series, here.