Mindfulness, ironically, is the fast track to pleasure by simply slowing down. Practising mindfulness is the act of being present and focused on the moment at hand. Mindfulness defined is; “paying attention on purpose in the present, non-judgementally”.

Mindfulness in the “mundane” is a way to reconnect and experience pleasure in the day to day experiences that we have begun to take for granted. To begin practising mindfulness, simply be present. Worry less about productivity and busy-ness as these are avoidance tactics that also cause us to miss out on connection to our-self and others. We need to stop seeing busy as a badge of honour. Pause and be. We are human-BEings, not human-doings or human-havings.

Being overly preoccupied with doing leads to aggressive yang energy. We begin to measure our life in accomplishments and external markers of validation and achievement which give us success without satisfaction. But, when we can find pleasure and purpose in the everyday moments as they present themselves, then we are wealthy in experiences which string together to make a beautiful and pleasurable life.

How to be more mindful right now:

1) Observe your thoughts without judgment by saying  “Hmmmm, isn’t that interesting this thought I am thinking?" This will neautralize the thought as simply a "thing" that you can choose to further explore or move beyond. Your thoughts will cease to be in control.

2) Do only one thing at a time and be fully present with it.

3) Pay attention with the 5 senses whenever possible. Slow down so you can register the touch, smell, taste, visual and auditory experience of this moment whenever possible. Take in the full richness of the experience at hand.

4) Do nothing for at least 5 mins/day.

5) Practice GRATITUDE in everything, for everything to be fully immersed in the moment.

6) Observe children “busy” at play and just BEing. Practice that enchanted and curious focus in your own life.

What you practice grows stronger. Mindfulness is intentionally paying attention. Shame, worry and living in the past shuts us down. Our brain can't learn or change or grow. Compassionate observation is the way to establish the new neural pathways of kindness towards self. Mindfulness fosters acceptance of what IS. Where we soften into a space of that childlike awe for our BEingness once again.

“Mindfulness helps you fall in love with the ordinary” ~Thich Nhat Hanh