Mindfulness

The corner of a tall brick building with windows and fire escapes and a sign that says "How are you really?"

Staying in the present

What is Mindfulness?

Anxiety is a high-energy emotion that keeps us caught up in the future while depression tends to be a tiring, heavy emotion that normally keeps us tied to the past. I will teach you practices that will help you cultivate a focused awareness of the present moment.

Common mindfulness practices we’ll work on:

  • Mindful breathing: paying attention to your breath which anchors you to the present moment

  • Body scan: Slowly scanning your body from head to toe, noticing area of tension and bringing awareness to that part

  • Loving-kindness meditations: Cultivating feeling of compassion and kindness toward yourself and others by silent repeating phrases of goodwill.

What are the benefits of Mindfulness?

Mindfulness teaches us to stay in the present. ”Staying in the present” simply means allowing yourself to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment. These practices are powerful tools for quieting your brain, which can decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and create a more general sense of well-being.

“Mindfulness is the aware, balanced acceptance of the present experience. It isn’t more complicated than that.”

— Sylvia Boorstein