Tara Solomon-Smith
Adult Dev'p. and Aging
enjoyed presenting a new K-State Research and Extension program on Mindfulness for several groups within the last month and a half. It was very timely for me, personally and professionally, since I wrapped up Medicare Part D open enrollment and the busy holiday season here!
With 50,000 thoughts going through our minds on a daily basis, mindfulness can be a practice we push aside. However, this many thoughts and all the directions our lives go, is all the more reason to work at being present, composed, and to pause before we overreact to the challenges of life—which is the basis of mindfulness.
With some guidance and training, mindfulness can develop into a way of living that brings greater focus and effectiveness as well as kindness and caring into everything we do. Both science and experience demonstrate how being mindful brings positive benefits for our health, happiness, work, and relationships.
These presentations appeared timely for the groups listening as well! Ninety-Six percent of participants said they gained knowledge about the benefits of mindfulness, with 89% agreeing that because of this, they would practice new skills. Here is to a New Year of being more mindful rather than mind FULL!
Facilitating Mindful Planning for Wellness
SHIFT (Shaping Health, Improving Fitness Together) Labette County is still in its initial formation, but continues with great momentum. I enjoyed assisting this group in being mindful of current work and growth. I facilitated a sector check activity to see what voices we were missing to further the overall wellness of all Labette County residents. Members also developed a project specific action plan for group awareness and addressing the opioid crisis.
I
Posture