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Even 5 minutes of mindfulness meditation a day can have a powerful positive effect on your brain. It can make you calm, improve your ability to solve problems, and improve your creativity. Mindfulness is basically a super power. We’ve put together these steps for to get you started.

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    What is mindfulness?

    Mindfulness is ‘Paying attention in a particular way: one purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally.’ According to the world famous expert on mindfulness – John Kabit-Zinn.

    This means noticing your thoughts, what your body feels like, what your ears are hearing, noticing the air coming in with each breath you take.

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    Create time and space

    Choose a regular time each day for mindfulness meditation practice, ideally a quiet place free from distraction

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    Set a timer

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    Start with 5 mins and work your way up to more. You might want an alarm during the day to remind you to take time to meditate.

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    Get comfy

    Sit in a comfortable position. Cross legged on the floor, or in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Sit up straight and relax your shoulders.

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    Close your eyes

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    Breathe

    Pay close attention to your breathing, especially when you’re feeling intense emotions.

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    Notice

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    Really notice what you’re sensing in a given moment, the sights, sounds and smells that ordinarily slip by.

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    Recognise

    Recognise that your thoughts and emotions are fleeting and do not define you, an insight that can free you from negative thought patterns.

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    Tune in

    Tune in to your body’s physical sensations, from the water hitting your skin in the shower to the way your body rests on your chair.

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    Deeeep breathes

    Deep breathing settles your body. As you inhale and exhale focus on your breathing. During the mindfulness meditation keep bringing yourself back to your breathing.

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    Be kind to yourself

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    Mindfulness meditation is requires practice, you don’t always get it right. Don’t be frustrated if you accidentally fall asleep!

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    Gently come back into the room

    When the timer goes off, keep your eyes closed until you’re ready to open them. Be thankful and give yourself a pat on the back.

    Here’s some more tips on mindfulness and meditation:
    The Mental Health Foundation info /bit.ly/1XMACub
    Young Scot fun tips bit.ly/1OuJ6Pt
    Smiling Mind app bit.ly/1g0V6hK
    Conscious Mind app bit.ly/1QxXIir
    Calm app bit.ly/1b6soDH

    If it’s still getting you down, don’t hesitate to talk to your GP or call NHS 111.

    Always talk to someone about how you’re feeling, someone you trust or a helpline, such as Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, for confidential, non-judgmental emotional support. Or ChildLine 0800 1111 to get help and advice about a wide range of issues, talk to a counsellor online, send ChildLine an email or post on their message boards.

    Sources:
    http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/Pages/mindfulness.aspx

    http://www.rd.com/health/wellness/10-steps-to-mindfulness/

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