Mindfulness

I took this picture in a Mindfull moment last year in Utila.

For your consideration…

We only have a couple more days left in 2018. Many of us are thinking and reflecting on what we did…what we didn’t do…what we would change if we could…what we would like to do in 2019 etc. So I love the timing of this message.

Our message today is about Mindfulness. Notice what is the first thing that popped in your mind when you read mindfulness? Good…bad…too hard…whoo whoo stuff…not enough time…indifference?

Mindfulness is becoming much more mainstream than it used to be. Businesses and schools are using it because they see the benefits of it. What is mindfulness and what are some of those benefits? Whether we realize it or not, we all have Mindfulness moments. A good example as when we drawn to something that makes us stop, pause and take a picture.

Very simply Mindfulness is noticing and being fully present in the moment without judgment. It is noticing our thoughts, feelings, what is going on around us, our bodies…everything occupying the present moment with us. Noticing everything but NOT judging any of it. No one said this is easy. It takes practice. Whether we are children or adults we start by noticing and following our breaths…in and out, in and out. This seems so simple. We wonder how it can be so effective. But remember, our breath is always with us. We can always call on it. It is a constant. Noticing it takes us to a focal point. With practice our mind will automatically go there.

Why is Mindfulness so beneficial? When we notice without judgment, we are able to relax, release fear. Judgment is the ego creating scenarios that cause fear and anxiety. When we are able to notice without judgment, we realize that we have control. We become at peace with our power. Without judgment we notice with objectivity and mental clarity. Indeed, being able to focus gives us better concentration skills. Being fully present in the moment without judgment we find ourselves more tolerant, kind, compassionate and accepting with ourselves and others.

I can not think of a greater gift we can give ourselves than the practice of Mindfulness. It puts peace and control within the span of a few breaths. Many communities have Mindfulness programs available. There are lots of free Mindfulness programs on lines. There are great books on it. I would recommend Jon Kabat-Zinn books. The point is that Mindfulness is available to most everyone.

With my whole heart, I HOPE that each person chooses to practice Mindfulness. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…

-Affirm…“I am loved.”

-Meditate/pray…ask…”What is my next step for my highest good and the highest good of all?”

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Set aside time each and every day for meditation/ mindfulness.

What made me smile yesterday…

-A PJ day.

-Catching up with Alex and Jodie.

-A good book.

-A great new recipe.

Love, Blessings and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris