According to a Harvard study, we are not fully present for almost 50% of the time. Instead, we either ruminate about the past or worry about things that are yet to come. This often leads to anxiety, frustration, or even pain in our daily lives.

Mindfulness has so many benefits. We spend most of our energy rehashing the past or rehearsing the future, and often miss out on our present reality. Just like any practice, the practice of mindfulness builds up and becomes part of our daily routines the more we practice it. 

Here are a few of those habits: 

• Start single-tasking: It’s sometimes seen as a badge of honor to multitask and be massively productive all the time, but the truth is that when we do so many things at once, we might not do it as well. If we focus on doing one task at a time, but doing it well, we end up saving time in the long run. 

• Take a mindful nature walk: One of the best mindfulness practices can be done while on a walk outside in nature. As you walk, instead of being on your phone or in your head, it’s helpful to focus on your senses. For one minute, pay attention to what you see. Then pay attention to what you smell and the different scents around you. Then pay attention to what you feel — maybe the wind on your face or a nice breeze. How about the sounds — maybe there’s a bird chirping or even a car honking. The goal is to get out of your head and into the moment. 

• Check in with your body: Make it a habit to check in with how your body feels and what it needs. Perhaps you’ve been sitting way too long and could use a nice stretch, or maybe you need to drink a glass of water or eat a snack. Every so often, tune into how your body feels and honor what it’s asking for. 

Practicing these habits regularly can have massive benefits for your mental health and wellbeing. Here’s to being mindful and staying present! 

At Healing Pathways of Houston, we are here to support you. Book a call with us and let’s find ways to improve your mental health and wellbeing.