Does the word “mindfulness” sound mystical and intimidating to you? If so, you are not alone. Before I began to study mindfulness, I thought it was something elusive that only Buddhist monks could understand. I also wondered if it’s religious origin presented a conflict with other beliefs. It wasn’t until I was desperate to find relief from my anxiety and depression that I discovered the true power of mindfulness.

For me, I use meditation and yoga to build my mindfulness practice. I find that it is the only way I can regulate my nervous system and connect with my body. I didn’t realize that I disassociate when I am anxious until I finally allowed myself to feel relaxed during mediation and yoga. But this relief did not come right away. Allowing myself to feel anxious while I learned to meditate was the hardest part. My body would subconsciously seek familiar pain instead of embracing unfamiliar joy. The only way I was able to find comfort through yoga and meditation was but committing to a consistent practice even when I wasn’t in the mood for it. Eventually, I began to crave it and now I don’t even have to make the time for it, it has become a natural part of my day.

If this sounds like something you are interested, great! Subscribe to my YouTube channel @laurenakashian5113 for my yoga and meditation videos. If yoga and meditation are not your thing, here are some other common mindfulness activities you may enjoy:

1. Mindful Walking- This is the most popular mindfulness activity for teacher in this mindfulness community. Some teachers like to walk with a buddy or in a group while others enjoy solo walks with Air pods so they can listen to music. At my school, teacher can be found getting their steps in by doing laps through the hallways or outside around our campus. And for dog owners, sometimes the best way to unwind from a long day at school is to take your pup for a relaxing stroll around the neighborhood.
2. Knitting- A member of our community always has yarn and needles with her because she finds knitting to be a very relaxing activity. The motion is extremely soothing and the best part is that it often results in the creation of cozy attire for the winter months!
3. Puzzles- Whether several or 1000 pieces, puzzles are a great way to begin a mindfulness practice. Puzzling can easily become a group effort so this is a great mindfulness activities for extroverts.
4. Self-care- Once seen as over indulgent, self-care is now a must. Why not make it mindful? Epsom salts, aromatherapy, bath bombs and serums can turn an ordinary shower or bath into a mindful experience.
5. Mindful Cooking- Sometimes after a long school day, the last thing you want to think about is making dinner but consider choosing a recipe from Instagram, gathering the ingredients on your way home from school and mindfully preparing a delicious meal to nourish your body.

If you try any of these activities please comment below and tell me about your experience. Or, if you have currently have a mindfulness practice of your own, tell me about it in the comments!