Badassery Magazine Issue 12 May 2017 | Page 58

About the Author
matter . Mindfulness also allows the communication between these two areas of the brain to weaken making it easier to use our higher brains .
The benefits of these brain changes include gaining clarity and confidence , achieving success and goals easier , boosting immunity and vitality , increasing attention , memory , and emotional intelligence , as well as decreasing stress , anxiety , and depression . And of course , greater self-awareness , which makes it easier to live in line with your core values .
How do you bring Mindful techniques into your daily life so that you can receive all the benefits ? The practices are simpler than you think . The difficulty lies in staying committed to daily practice . You may need to hire some help or enlist a friend to insure you continue .
There are countless techniques and the following are essentially at the heart of Mindfulness and easy for anyone to practice and the perfect way to just do begin . Choose one of the following each week beginning with just a few minutes each day and work your way up to 20-40 minutes a day . You can also practice them briefly any time throughout the day . When your mind wanders , as it will , simply bring your attention back to your focus point or chosen awareness . Be non-judgmental and simply curious and exploring .
Breath Awareness : Notice the area below your nose , your chest , or your belly .
Sound : Be still and listen .
Compassion : Choose a mantra or affirmation such as ; “ May I be well , May I be at Peace …” Breathe in , breathe out .”
Count : As you breathe in think 1 , breathe out think 2 , work your way to 10 and then start over .
Body Scan : Start at the top of your head and pay attention to each part of your body and see what sensations you feel or notice .
The idea is to be curious , just notice . The goal is not to control your thoughts . The idea is for them not to control you . You are observing and noticing and will be surprised at how much you become aware of . Most importantly you will receive so many benefits as well as an understanding of yourself . When you are aware of your core values , make conscious decisions , and live mindfully in the present moment you are authentic , empowered and can create anything you dream . apple

About the Author

Amy McCae is a Certified Life Coach , Spiritual and Holistic Wellness Expert , and Transformational Speaker . After spending nearly a decade ill , Amy healed herself through natural methods . Through that process she rediscovered a passion for helping others . Amy now holds numerous certifications in mind , body , and spirit wellness . She is passionate about healing and about relationships and often focuses on mindfulness to bring about desired changes in health , relationships , and to insure success . Amy offers presentations and workshops , coaching , mindfulness and meditation sessions , as well as energy work . To learn more about Amy please visit her website at www . amymccae . com To schedule a free 20 minute Focus Session please visit https :// amymccae . acuityscheduling . com /

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