Exploring Mindfulness.

Yoga, meditation and mindfulness have been taught to increase self-awareness for centuries. This ancient tradition provides movements and techniques to support the growing demands of modern life. These powerful practices can be used preventatively to increase self-awareness as well as rehabilitation of the body and stress reduction for the mind.

I use mindfulness meditation for patients with musculoskeletal pain and research has shown that it is effective at changing a patients’ relationship to their pain.

What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present and self-aware of our own emotions. When you bring awareness to your experiences through your senses, thoughts or emotions, you are being mindful.

Mindful Breathing.

Helps us shift from a sympathetic state ‘fight, flight or fight’ to a less stressful parasympathetic state ‘rest and digest’. Slow deep diaphagmatic breathing can connect you with the present. The following technique can be used anywhere, anytime.

• Start by breathing in slowly and deeply, allowing the ribs to expand, pushing your stomach out filling your lungs with air. Try this for 4 -10 counts.

• Hold your breath briefly

• Exhale slowly for 10 counts thinking “relax and let go"

• Repeat the entire sequence 5 - 10 times

Mindful Walking.

The key to taking a mindful walk is to leave your phone at home. Slow walk, don't rush! Start to tap into your senses; notice the sounds and colours around you; appreciate the light and shadows; feel the air temperature against your skin.

Remember mindfulness comes in many shapes and sizes. It can be practiced via a formal daily practice such as a body scan, sitting meditation or mindful movement such a Pilates or Yoga.

Contact one of our physiotherapists who can assist in your mindfulness journey on 44542309.

Be In The Now. Be Mindful.