Mindfulness promotes paying more attention to the present moment – to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you – which can improve your mental wellbeing.

 

How to be more mindful:

1. Reminding yourself to take notice of your thoughts, feelings, body sensations and the world around you are the first steps to mindfulness.

2. Notice the everyday - As we go about our daily lives, we can notice the sensations of things, the food we eat, the air moving past the body as we walk.

3. Keep it regular - It can be helpful to pick a regular time, such as a morning journey to work or a walk at lunchtime, during which you decide to be aware of the sensations created by the world around you.

4. Try something new - Trying new things, such as sitting in a different seat in meetings or going somewhere new for lunch, can also help you notice the world in a new way.

5. Watch your thoughts - Some people find it very difficult to practise mindfulness. As soon as they stop what they're doing, lots of thoughts and worries crowd in.

 

The NHS Mindfulness website has more information and links to 'how to guides' such as the Every Mind Matters How to meditate for beginners. Through this site you can also claim your FREE Mind plan to keep you on track.

 

NEF 5 steps to Wellbeing - Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life.

 

Finally, there are numerous apps available some of which are endorsed by the NHS. Some of our personal favourites are below but you may have your own that you like to use!

 

• CALM is an app for sleep and meditation. Join the millions experiencing better sleep, lower stress, and less anxiety.

• Headspace will teach you the life-changing skills of meditation and mindfulness in just a few minutes a day.

• Insights timer is the world’s largest FREE library of more than 180k guided meditations