Meditation Oral – Engaging the 5 senses

Human minds are easily distracted, constantly examining past events and trying to anticipate the future. Becoming more aware of our thoughts, feelings and sensations may not sound like an obviously helpful thing to do, however learning to do this in a way without judgement and self-criticism can have an incredibly positive impact on our lives.

Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to, and seeing clearly whatever is happening in our lives. It will not eliminate life's pressures, but it can help us manage them in a calmer manner to help our heart, head, and body. It helps us recognise and step away from the common unconscious emotional and physiological reactions to everyday events. It provides us with a scientifically researched approach to insight, and understanding. Practicing mindfulness allows us to be fully present in our life and work, and improve our quality of life.

The aim of mindfulness therapy is to help the client learn to be aware of their thoughts and bodily sensations and in so doing be able to better cope with day to day emotions and problems.
Although mindfulness has only recently been embraced by Western psychology, it is an ancient practice found in a wide range of Eastern philosophies, including Buddhism and Yoga. Mindfulness involves consciously bringing awareness to your here-and-now experience with openness, curiosity and flexibility. Jon Kabat-Zinn, a world authority on the use of mindfulness training in the management of clinical problems, defines it as: "Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally."

Mindfulness is about waking up, connecting with ourselves, and appreciating the fullness of each moment of life. Kabat-Zinn calls it, "The art of conscious living." It is a way to enhance psychological and emotional resilience, and increase life satisfaction.

What are the benefits of mindfulness?
Your mind is like any other part of your being, there are benefits from understanding how it works and you can train it to work better. Specifically a mindfulness practice has the following benefits:
1. Stability of mind – maintaining your mind in an alert clear space rather than at the two extremes of a dull or agitated mind.
2. Flexibility of mind – the ability to shift your mind to whatever object you choose, rather than having it bounce back and forth between a number of issues
3. Self awareness – being aware of the contents of your mind