The simple and powerful art of being present with mindfulness

This week in the Auli Journal we are exploring the practice of mindfulness.

 Being mindful is the ability to be entirely present, conscious of where we are and what we’re doing, and not being reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Practicing mindfulness is something that we should be incorporating into our daily routine to calm and clear the mind. It has multiple benefits including lessening the effects of anxiety and depression, improving one’s ability to focus, enhancing performance, and improving the overall awareness that we have of our own body and mind. For many, having a mindfulness practice as a part of the day allows one to detach from any judgement they may have of themselves or others and explore the almost child-like curiosity that we so rarely get to be a part of in the busy modern-day world. 

“You are worth the quiet moment, you are worth the deeper breath. You are worth the time it takes to slow down, be still, and rest.” Morgan Harper Nichols

Mindfulness practices come in many shapes and variations. Often people explore mindfulness by combining it with the practice of yoga. Together these practices are effective in calming the mind and allow people to cultivate a space of kindness and compassion for themselves. When mindfulness is used in conjunction with yoga, asana- the body postures used in yoga- become a tool by which people can cultivate self-awareness. 

Being mindful may seem like an easy thing to do but like many of us who lead busy on-the-go lives, being fully present and in the moment can actually be incredibly challenging. For those who are just starting to be introduced to mindfulness, starting with small mindfulness practices can help start your journey towards being more present and can ground you in space and time. Some of our favourite mindfulness practices include:

-Eating mindfully where you nourish your body with healthy food and focus on what you are putting into your mouth, making sure to enjoy every bite.

-Doing breath work where you return your attention to your breath whenever your mind inevitably wanders.

-Disconnecting from technology when possible.

-Taking a walk in nature focusing on what you see, feel, and smell in your natural surroundings.

-Making yourself a bath and focusing on the water warming and relaxing your body. We suggest lighting Auli’s Leur D’Encens candle for extra ambiance and relaxation with scents of incense, rose and woods.

Relax with Auli London scented candle made with 100% natural essential oils