We live busy and distracted lives. We might prepare a meal with one ear on the radio news and an eye on what our children are up to. We might then eat that meal in front of the television, watching something while we eat. Perhaps we no longer sit and read without checking up on the world’s antics on our smartphones. It seems like there are so many things competing for our attention and preventing us from truly focusing.
What’s all the fuss about mindfulness?
There’s been an awful lot of commentary over the past few years about mindfulness, sometimes accompanied by extravagant claims about its benefits. While it might not solve all your problems, regular mindfulness practice has helped to improve the lives of a growing number of people.
Here are some of the reasons why you might want to consider taking up the practice.
Mindfulness improves feelings of well-being
Being present in the moment helps you to appreciate life to a greater degree. It might just be the beauty of a flower that you pass on your walk to the bus-stop or the taste of a favourite meal. Being focused fully in the moment prevents rumination. There’s less cause for regret over events from your past and a greater trust in what the future might bring.
It can improve physical health
There’s a growing body of research that indicates that mindfulness can help with the management of pain, can lower blood pressure, aid sleep and ease gastrointestinal issues. It can help with weight loss as we become more mindful of our appetite.
Mindfulness for better mental health
Mindfulness has been shown to contribute to good mental health. It has been used as one part of the treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. It can help counteract damaging thought patterns and has shown to be particularly effective when used in conjunction with talking therapies.
As well as a healthy mind, it’s important to have a healthy body. Practice mindfulness along with chiropractic care to feel like your best self! To learn more about chiropractic care and body health, get in touch with a Ridgeway Health & Wellness today.