How Mindfulness Helps

The practice of mindful awareness can help us to feel better, especially if we are struggling with difficult emotions, fluctuations in our mood or physical pain.

It is a skill of stepping into a mode of “being" present with whatever is happening, rather than reacting and getting stuck on autopilot.

Mindfulness teaches us to:

• Be more present and engaged in everyday life, rather than being lost in thoughts about the past or worry about the future

• Step out of autopilot so we can be more purposeful in our day-to-day choices

• Notice our direct experiences (body sensations, emotions, thoughts) - whether they be pleasant, unpleasant or neutral

• Regulate emotions and ride the waves of their intensity

• Learn to respond rather than react to or avoid difficulties

• Relate to ourselves and others with kindness, warmth and compassion