Building a daily practice that works for you
Dedicating a pocket of time during your day to focus on yourself–without distractions or judgment–can drastically shift your disposition toward life. Whether it is fifteen minutes or two hours, tapping into your loving awareness and bringing your attention inward is essential to stabilizing your well-being.
WHY THE DAILY PRACTICE IS ESSENTIAL
Regardless of your belief system, one universal truth is that life is a journey of self-discovery. This is why it is crucial to take some time every day to get to know who you are and what you are doing here on this planet, right here, right now.
This does not necessarily mean that you need to sit down every day and ponder these existential questions (unless you want to). Instead, it’s about disconnecting from distractions in order to grow closer to the individual that you aspire to be. Of course, this is assuming you would like to be happy and at peace in mind, body and spirit.
LET’S GET STARTED: A MOMENT OF AWARENESS
We can begin right now, actually. Sit comfortably, set down your phone, allow your eyes to fall shut, and gently clear your mind. Notice how I said, “gently.” Oftentimes, we attempt to not think about anything, our minds immediately race with thoughts about not thinking. As these thoughts arise, simply begin to notice them like you are an omniscient observer of the words and pictures floating in and out of your mind.
Congratulations! You have dedicated a moment to enter a meditative state of being and have taken a small step toward building your daily practice.
FIND YOUR FLOW
Your daily practice does not need to incorporate meditation (although it is highly recommended). Start by listing activities that get you into a lighter, more elevated state of being; things that bring you joy and elevate your mood.
For instance, when you become completely absorbed by something that you love doing, like creating art, coding, dancing or playing chess, you may enter a flow state. This state of total absorption can train you in non-distraction and mindfulness, guiding you closer to your authentic self.
CONSISTENCY
Studies have shown that a daily practice, such as meditation or a routine, will not only significantly reduce stress and anxiety but also increase cognitive function and emotional regulation. With that, consistency is the key to the longevity of these effects.
BUILDING YOUR DAILY PRACTICE
Here are a few blocks you can use to build the foundation of your daily practice:
Meditation
Yoga
Affirmations, manifestations and visualization
Exercise
Walk around the block
Read a few pages of a self-help book
Create something artistic (poetry, painting, sculpting, cooking, etc.)
Journaling or writing
Dance and sing
Do a puzzle
Speak with your therapist
Skincare
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Start Small: Pick three activities to begin with and add more as you feel ready.
Prioritize Joy: Your daily practice should feel enjoyable and peaceful, not like a chore.
Be Kind to Yourself: If you miss a day, don’t be hard on yourself. Flexibility and self-compassion are essential for long-term success.
YOU CAN DO THIS!
Incorporating mindful practices into your daily routine is a powerful way to nurture your mind, body and spirit. By dedicating even a small amount of time each day to activities that bring you peace and joy, you can build a foundation of well-being, resilience and self-discovery. Remember, your practice is a gift to yourself —an opportunity to grow, heal and reconnect with what truly matters. Start small, stay consistent and let mindfulness transform your everyday life.
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