The word mindfulness refers to a group of practices designed to promote inner peace, focus, and presence in the current moment. Between work, familial responsibilities, and day-to-day tasks like errands and appointments, it’s easy to look forward or backward. For example, you might make a mistake at work and spend the rest of the day regretting it. Or, you might find yourself focusing on the weekend, only to see it slip by once it finally arrives.
Mindfulness encourages you to embrace where you are in the here and now. When you’re aware of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and your surrounding environment, it’s easier to cultivate a sense of relaxation and well-being.
Mindfulness isn’t magical or impossible to attain. It’s the tried and true practice of slowing down without judging your thoughts, feelings, or actions as right or wrong.
Yes. Mindfulness practice provides an array of both physical and mental health benefits. Clinical studies suggest that mindfulness can lower your risk of a range of common health problems, including:
If you regularly experience insomnia or other sleep-related issues, mindfulness can help you relax and encourage a restful, rejuvenating night’s sleep.
Experts aren’t entirely sure how mindfulness promotes well-being. Some researchers believe that mindfulness practice encourages people to embrace and sit with painful emotions. Although difficult at first, this prevents the need to escape or avoid these feelings through less healthy behaviors like drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or eating compulsively.
Additionally, mindfulness allows your body to unwind. When you practice mindfulness activities like yoga or meditation, it triggers a relaxation response throughout your body. Ultimately, this lowers your heart and respiratory rate, as well as your blood pressure and muscle tension.
At Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine, the team offers two different types of mindfulness training, including group mindfulness sessions and group Qigong classes.
The team welcomes people of all ages and levels of experience. Whether you’re new to the practice or you’re a seasoned pro, these group classes encourage peace and promote an environment of friendship and encouragement.
To learn more about the benefits of mindfulness, schedule an appointment at Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine by calling the office or booking online today.
