I received a article from a fellow blogger and would like to share. It relates to mindfulness and how it can increase focus, performance, reduce stress, deepen self-insight, and help to develop compassion toward oneself and others. The Bible promotes a form of mindfulness focused on God, scripture, and the present moment, emphasizing stillness, prayer, and “setting minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2) It encourages renewing the mind (Romans 12:2), guarding the heart (Proverbs 4:23) and living in thankful, peaceful awareness rather than anxious distraction. The article displays ways to make mindfulness a part of our everyday life. I have attached her website below. Love and Blessings…
Making Mindfulness Part of Your Everyday Life
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention—on purpose, in the present moment, without judgment—and this article is for people who want to be more mindful in everyday life, not just during quiet moments on a cushion. The challenge most people face isn’t understanding mindfulness; it’s remembering to practice it when life gets loud, rushed, or messy.
A quick grounding before we begin
Mindfulness doesn’t require a personality change, special clothes, or an empty calendar. It’s less about adding something new and more about noticing what’s already happening. When practiced regularly, it can help you feel calmer, more focused, and more connected to your own experiences—small and large alike.
Why mindfulness slips away so easily
Modern life rewards speed and multitasking. We eat while scrolling, listen while planning our reply, and rest while feeling guilty about it. Mindfulness often falls through the cracks because it seems optional or time-consuming.
The solution isn’t more discipline. It’s smarter placement.
How mindfulness actually fits into real life
Think of mindfulness as a series of small pauses rather than one long practice. It can show up while brushing your teeth, walking to your car, or waiting for coffee to brew. These moments already exist—you’re just learning to inhabit them more fully.
Everyday moments that invite awareness
● Noticing the temperature of the water while washing your hands
● Feeling your feet hit the ground as you walk
● Taking one slow breath before opening your email
● Listening fully to the first minute of a conversation
None of these require extra time. They require attention.
A simple how-to for building a daily mindfulness habit
Use this as a flexible checklist, not a rigid rulebook:
1. Anchor it to something you already do Pair mindfulness with habits like waking up, eating lunch, or going to bed.
2. Start tiny One conscious breath counts. Consistency matters more than duration.
3. Use your senses Ask yourself: What can I see, hear, feel, smell, or taste right now?
4. Drop the judgment If your mind wanders, notice it and gently return. That is the practice.
5. Repeat, imperfectly Some days will feel focused. Others won’t. Both are normal.
Gratitude as a doorway to mindfulness
One powerful way to stay present is through gratitude journaling. Writing down a few things you’re thankful for—especially small, ordinary moments—helps train your attention toward what’s already going well. Gratitude isn’t about ignoring difficulties; it’s about widening your perspective so positivity and possibility have room to exist alongside challenges. Over time, this practice can gently shift your mindset toward openness and presence.
What mindfulness can look like at different times of day
Time of day Mindful focus Simple practice
Morning Starting intentionally Take three slow breaths before checking your phone
Midday Resetting attention Eat one meal or snack without distractions
Afternoon Releasing tension Notice your shoulders and jaw; soften them
Evening Slowing down Reflect on one moment you noticed today
Night Letting go Scan your body before sleep, head to toe
This isn’t a schedule to follow perfectly—just a menu of options.
Frequently asked questions about mindfulness
Do I need to meditate to be mindful? No. Meditation helps, but mindfulness can happen during any activity.
How long before I notice benefits? Some people feel small shifts quickly; deeper changes often come with weeks of gentle consistency.
What if my mind won’t stop racing? That’s normal. Mindfulness isn’t about stopping thoughts—it’s about noticing them.
Can mindfulness help with stress? Yes. By noticing stress early, you often respond more calmly instead of reacting automatically.
A practical place to learn and practice If you’re looking for a calm, research-backed introduction to mindfulness, the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) offers free guided meditations, short courses, and simple explanations grounded in everyday life. Their resources are clear, welcoming, and especially useful if you prefer a gentle, non-intimidating approach to building a regular practice.
Bringing it all together
Mindfulness doesn’t demand a quieter life—it meets you inside the one you already have. By weaving small moments of attention into your day, you build awareness naturally and sustainably. Over time, those moments add up to greater calm, clarity, and presence. Start small, stay curious, and let mindfulness grow with you.
AUTHOR: Hazel Bridges
hazel@agingwellness.org
EMMANUEL 