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Mindfulness is maintaining an in-the-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surroundings. It involves paying attention to these experiences in a non-judgmental and accepting manner. Basic meditation and relaxation exercises are common practices to achieve this.
Why it’s important:
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- When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts are centered on the present. We don’t regret the past or worry about the future. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness, even for just a few weeks, can bring a variety of physical, psychological, and social benefits, including increased resiliency.
- Mindfulness is good for our bodies, as it boosts our immune system and encourages mindful eating and motivated exercise.
- Mindfulness is good for our minds. It increases positive emotions while reducing negative emotions and stress. It may be as good as antidepressants in fighting depression and anxiety.
- Being calm allows us to be focused in the present moment, which opens us up to practicing other components such as kindness, compassion, gratitude, etc.
- Being focused on the present moment also allows us to address the reality of situations, take time to contemplate all angles, and create solutions that are not mired with stress or anxiety.
In the workplace:
- Mindfulness helps healthcare and mental health professionals cope with stress and connect with their patients.
- It increases positive feelings of self-compassion when continuously dealing with the problems of others.
- It reduces irritation, anger, and hostility among managers and co-workers. It improves happiness levels and the ability to listen and communicate more effectively.
- Large projects, co-workers out sick, or being thrown a task at the last minute might not seem as stressful if we looked at it from a “drama-free” perspective.
- The ability to do our work effectively and efficiently is increased if we center ourselves before or after a long meeting, when a problem arises, or an emergency is taking place.
- Relationships are stronger if we calm ourselves before or after having a difficult conversation.
Here are some ways to practice mindfulness:
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- Find online meditation classes, recordings, and other resources on The Mindful Hub to help calm your mind boost your resilience.
- Do a quick mediation by taking 12 deep breaths and exhales. Start or end meetings with one so everyone can feel relaxed and centered.
- Go to the KP's mindfulness resource page where you can find lots of resources such as guided imagery, meditation classes at KP, or the online program HealthMedia® Relax™
- Find online meditation classes, recordings, and other resources on The Mindful Hub to help calm your mind boost your resilience.
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Thanks for sharing.