THE NEW NORMAL
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yourself , and bring your attention back to the breath .
• Set a timer to help keep you from thinking about the clock .
• Other basic practices include bringing attention to sensations in the body by scanning from the toes to the scalp , mentally counting on the in-breath and out-breath , and noticing the pause between each breath .
• There is no “ right ” and “ wrong ” way to practice , as the purpose of practice is to bring awareness of your present experience without judging yourself .
Many online and in-person resources are available to expand your practice . Group practices , both online and in-person , can be found by searching for “ mindfulness ” at Meetup . com . It ’ s fine to try several groups in order to find one that resonates with you personally — again , acceptance without judgment .
Other Bells of Mindfulness
In group settings the beginning and end of a mindfulness practice session are typically signaled by the ringing of a bell . Having begun a regular practice in peace and quiet , and recognizing that you ’ ll need to “ perform ” when there is no peace and quiet , you can extend your practice through creating a “ mindfulness bell ” out of everyday annoyances and mundane tasks . These might include being stopped at a red light ( particularly when you ’ re running late !), washing dishes , a phone ringing , or brushing teeth .
By bringing attention to the present moment , and the attendant physical and emotional sensations , you can practice appreciating the mundane and gaining perspective on the annoying .
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By bringing attention to the present moment , and the attendant physical and emotional sensations , you can practice appreciating the mundane and gaining perspective on the annoying .
Mindfulness In Performance
During this liminal season , between what was and what will be , we will be living in a state of heightened chronic anxiety . Understanding this , and how it is manifested , is the first step toward acting more skillfully and compassionately in our relationships .
For example , when a colleague catches you in the faculty workroom frustrated with a student , or a parent catches you in the carpool line unhappy with the auction centerpieces , you can use this complaint as
Page 24 Fall 2021 CSEE Connections