Mindfulness is word that in recent times has become more common in our everyday conversations. Mindfulness is simply about being fully present or being focussed in the moment.
This could be with a task or action that you may be doing, or being aware of your thoughts, your emotions or your presence within the environment you may be in.
How might you explore mindfulness easily?
- Just sit in a quiet place and tune in to yourself by breathing gently and letting your mind focus softly on your thoughts, your bodily sensations and what is around you.
- Box breathing is one technique that is often used. It simply requires you to breathe in through your nose to a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, breath gently out for a count of four and then hold for a count of four. Repeat this for five or six times and let your body gently settle..
Here is a breathing technique video by Art Friends. https://drive.google.com/file/d/162tSdVSldEvcOyG8pLxkJd5ml1wJotF4/view?usp=sharing
At this point when you are relaxed and calm, focus on what is coming into your mind. If a thought comes, just let it come in and then let it go. Don’t get caught up in the thought. The purpose of mindfulness, is to just be aware.
Introducing Art and meditation as part of your mindfulness practice is calming and can be a wonderful source of creativity. Being involved in an art experience can create flow and help focus the brain thus allowing for a more effective and rewarding mindful experience.
Art Friends have a number of Mindfulness art activities for you to enjoy online. These include Mindfulness and the art of drawing as well as painting, modelling collage and dyeing.