MINDFULNESS

                                           ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY

Ok this is clearly not Rome.  This is Venice, Italy, which made me think of Rome, which made me think of the saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day”.  I use this saying a lot when speaking to other people, but to be quite honest, I’m not so good with it myself.  Patience IS a virtue right? 

Me, being a type A type of personality, a go getter, seize the moment type of gal, it is much easier for me to give the advice “slow down”, than it is to apply it to myself.  I can start my day with the best of intentions, like I’m going to meditate, read the bible, journal for the first few minutes of the day but when my feet hit the ground, it never seems to stop.  Let’s face it, our “to do” lists in life are endless.  The more we cross off, the more we add on. 

We are also bombarded with information today!  Even things as simple as grocery shopping today can be overwhelming with so many choices and food that is not real.  The multitude of information that comes our way through emails and social media never ends!   It is very easy to get distracted and loose focus of our intentions. 

I think it is more important than ever today to practice “mindfulness” and slow down a bit.  For some this may come easy, but I’m sure there are many out there like me who have to work hard to achieve this, as I will always take on a new project, or hit the gym, or tackle my “to do” list before I sit down and just “be”.   I am challenging myself to a new 21 day habit to take time first thing in the morning to reflect.  I invite you all to do this as well!

It is tough to be “mindful” in a society that is fast paced and intent on getting as much done as possible in as little time as possible, BUT it is so important to do so!

Did you know…..

  1. When you are connected to the present moment and those around you, there is an increase in overall life satisfaction.

2.  When you are truly present and aware of the present moment, you are less likely to be

     caught up in worries about the past and the future.  Seriously we can’t change what has

     already happened and why worry about what may never happen?

3.  Mindfulness has been found to help relieve stress, stave off heart disease, lower blood

     pressure, reduce chronic pain, improve sleep, reduce depression, and reduce relationship

     conflicts. 

And here are some of my favorites…..

4.  Slowing down and being mindful helps us be more creative.

5.  Actually helps us achieve bigger goals.

6.  Changes the structure of our brain for the better. 

I hope you have enjoyed this information and I encourage you to join me on a #21daychallenge to become more mindful for your own health.   We have one life and your worth it!  Live a great one!