Mindfulness has become such a huge part of my life of late. For me it is a way of connecting relaxation, meditation and journaling to help me become a much calmer individual.

Due to the fact it has worked wonders for me I thought I would share with you my top 10 tips so you to can live a more mindful life. I’ve even got a diagram this time!

1. Be still – sometimes when things get that little bit too much, just pausing and giving myself a chance to bring my thoughts together is just what I need
2. Let go of the tension – I admit this is easier said than done! But acknowledging when tension is creeping in, then just releasing it has become a fundamental turning point for me. It does not mean I am stress free, but I can identify and minimise the stress better now
3. Smile – it uses more facial muscles than a frown so it must be good for you right!
4. Breathe (4,7,8) – I have always been a fan of deep breathing, and in the past I have discussed a box breathing technique which I would use. However, in a recent podcast I learnt a new technique (4,7,8) which for my mindfulness practices has been much more beneficial as it is easier to get into rhythm and calm quicker. So we breathe in for 4, hold for 7 and breathe out for 8
5. Be in the moment – with such busy lives it is so easy to just let our daily activities pass us by without even taking in what we are doing. So take a moment to really take in your surroundings. When you’re next a work, pause when at your desk. What can you see, smell, hear? Why are you there? What are you doing?
6. Tell yourself you’re awesome – for me this has been both difficult and life changing. Looking in the mirror and saying “you’re awesome” was tough and near on impossible to begin with. Now I can say it proudly and have a self-belief I never knew I could have
7. Notice your emotions – in order to be truly mindful, you have to notice your emotions. It doesn’t mean you have to change them, but rather notice what you are feeling and acknowledging why you are feeling that emotion
8. Journal it out – I will always be an advocate for writing things down. I personally do this in a variety of ways; the traditional pen and paper or an app on my phone are the main ones I use
9. Acknowledge your senses – this is different from your emotions. This is about taking in your situation and being aware of what is around you. What can you see, smell, hear, taste and touch? How do these things make you feel?
10. Try not to multitask – I have found that by focusing on one task at a time I have become more productive! The focus allows me to finish tasks quicker and to a better quality. I can also see what I have a achieved in a day because tasks get completed!