Introduction to Mindfulness_349810_bookemon_ebook.pdf Coaching and Practising Mindfulness | Page 27

Helping keep people resilient
Numerous studies also suggest that mindfulness makes a big
difference to our resilience levels.
Daily mindfulness practice
Pick an activity that you do most days or every day, such as eating
breakfast or travelling to work. Choose something you have to do
anyway, but set the intention to be mindful when doing this activity.
Bringing your attention to the present moment - not dwelling in the
past or planning for the future. Instead, being open to and curious
about what emerges. Really explore what you find. Remember to be
compassionate towards yourself and others.
Your mind will wander off - that's fine, that's what minds do. When
that happens, gently bring your thoughts back to whatever it is
you're doing and congratulate yourself for noticing your mind has
wandered.
You may find you come to relish this time, seeing it as pressing the
pause button. You may find you notice more about whatever it is
you're engaged in. Or you may find you encounter "unpleasant"
feelings such as boredom or sadness.
Whatever comes up, just notice it, explore it, turn towards it and
gently let go, without judgment, but with curiosity and compassion.
Practising mindfulness helps us develop the "attentional control" that
is important in resilience and high performance, according to research
by David Marchant, a senior lecturer in sport and exercise psychology
at Edge Hill University in Scotland.

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