Posted May 10, 2015 in Debra’s Wellness Tips

Mindfulness-Emotional Benefits

Emotional well-being is something we mostly think about when we are experiencing something else! Your mindfulness practice improves your ability to become aware of what you are feeling, notice how it feels in your body, and identify what thoughts are related. You are observing without trying to fix or control. In fact, you can become skilled at observing your stable center that exists even in the midst of myriad emotions.

The practice of mindfulness varies with different training, but a sense-based awareness is central to most, if not all. Think about it this way: You have a body, but you are not your body. You have thoughts but you are not your thoughts. You also have emotions even though you are not your emotions. You will be observing:

Sensations: Tingling, itching, growling and all manner of sensations rise and fall in your body. You can notice them without judgment, and just let them be. Pay attention to each part of your body, from head to toe.

Emotions: Emotions can be thought of as energy in motion. Simply naming each emotion (“joy,” “concern,” “anger,” “boredom,” “frustration”) as you become aware allows them to be present without judgment. As you practice a steady and relaxed observation, you will find it easier to just let each emotion go.

Cravings: Your inner landscape is rich with sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. You can learn to step right of cravings by observing how urge control occurs naturally as you become comfortable noticing the way your body holds the yearning.

You are learning it is respectful, compassionate, and beneficial to not be a victim to your own inner workings. Make friends, not war!

This week, share what you are practicing with others who can benefit. Mindfulness has been shown to decrease depression and anxiety, leading to a lessening in relational conflicts at the office and at home. Stress reduction benefits you and everyone you work and live with.

This health tip originally appeared online at https://scs-matters.com/Mindfulness-Emotional-Benefits/.

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Tips from 5 April 2010 to 6 August 2012 are here: Archived Tips


Small Changes … Infinite Results™

“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” 
~Mother Teresa

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