Mindfulness is quite the buzzword these days between social media feeds getting on wellness trends, but for good reason: it is likely the next public health breakthrough according to the experts.

But what does it actually mean? The word itself is bringing awareness to emotions, actions and thoughts, but how do you put that into practice?

While it sounds vague, you make it a habit by being intentional and deciding to stop going through life on autopilot. You can STOP: stop, take a breath, observe and proceed. This is a way to make awareness a habit in all aspects of your life. To be a more mindful person, learn to practice these awareness exercises with your breathing, active gratitude, words and actions.

Mindful Awareness & Observation

The first exercise is to practice mindfulness through observation. Sit down in a comfortable position and focus on an object in the room as if it is the first time you are seeing it.

This is kind of like a specific kind of meditation, you are trying to not think about any intruding thoughts or other aspects of your environment, just on the one object. Notice little details, ask yourself questions about it, where it came from and what it adds to the room. This is a simple and easy exercise that anyone can do, in any place, every day to make mindfulness a habit.

Plus it is very grounding and can help you stay present, use this tool if you ever feel overwhelmed or stressed out. This can help you build more awareness as well of the things around you, instead of simply ignoring them every day.

Mindful Breathing

Mindful breathing is another activity that can be done from anywhere, anytime to ground yourself or simply bring more intention into the moment. Breathe in and out slowly and try to have a balanced inhale and exhale of 3 to 5 seconds.

Similar to before when you were focusing on an object, let your breath be the center of your attention and let go of anything else that is on your mind. Responsibilities and to-do lists can wait till after you have a moment to yourself.

This is the basis of meditation, if you can take a few moments to yourself to feel grounded and focus on your breath, it will allow you to walk into your day with a clearer head and more awareness.

Related: Stretches To Promote Healthy Breathing

Mindful Gratitude

Gratitude is another practice that goes hand in hand with mindfulness, especially in regards to the science of happiness which insinuates that you have the power to build your own happiness.

When moments go by that you feel grateful for, that is a beautiful association to have, but being intentional about it helps reinforce the habit. Take time out of every day to be practice gratitude. It could be in the morning, to start your day, by writing down three things in your gratitude journal, you can repeat the habit in the evening or if you prefer a boost of happiness throughout the day do it during your coffee break.

It only takes a few minutes a day to be intentionally grateful. Science also shows that when you share that gratitude, it can make you even happier. Tell someone you love them every day, or share with someone you care about what you are grateful for.

Related: 10 Ways To Practice Mindfulness And Gratitude

Mindful Intentions & Words

One of the more difficult ways to be mindful is with your words and actions. While it isn't always possible to stop and think constantly, especially in a busy work environment, try to find the right moments to have very intentional conversations.

Practice during a work meeting, or a one-on-one. Before speaking, pause, choose your words carefully and use them with intention. It doesn't have to be a serious topic to still be intentional with your words.

Do you find yourself getting irritated easily in certain situations, or with certain people? Those are definitely the moments to approach conversations, and your own emotions with intention instead of reaction. Take a breath, recenter and express how you feel.

Mindful Art & Play

This is by far the most fun way to be practice mindfulness is during something you love. Pick a hobby, any hobby and allow yourself to get lost in play. When you give your attention to something that is only for you, it allows you to leave the rest behind.

Don't feel like you need to give in to the pressure of having a consistent hobby, it is okay to pick up a watercolor brush here and there and just play instead of worrying about technique. That is the purpose of mindful play and art, allow yourself to indulge instead of stressing about the outcome.

For some people this means sports, for others it means sitting under a tree in the park with a book. Find what helps you disconnect, and allow yourself to be in the moment, that is the best kind of mindfulness.

Next: What Is Mindful Eating & Why It is Important

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