Mindfulness is a term you may or may not be familiar with but there is a lot of buzz around the benefits of being more mindful. Lower stress, increased productivity, and better overall health are just a few of the noted benefits. The newest buzzword around mindful activities is kindfulness. This concept incorporates both kindness, and mindfulness, something which many people argue are ingredients to feeling better in work and life.
What is Kindfulness?
Kindfulness is a term coined by a meditation teacher, Ajahn Brahm, who developed the concept after realizing just mindfulness alone is missing kindness as a key ingredient. Mindfulness itself is just about being present in the moment, but development of peace and stillness takes being kind to oneself and others.
Why it Matters
Most meditation teachers encourage warm, friendly vibes and awareness but perhaps kindfulness has more to offer. It is a reminder to be kind to oneself and others, as well as offering forgiveness as a sort of peace offering. Meditation can make you a better, more relaxed, person, but it can also benefit people whom you meet or interact with regularly. Building compassion is about being kind to others, as much as ourselves, on the journey of life.
How to Mix the Two
The best way to mix kindfulness and mindfulness is by noticing the impact you want on your practice (yoga, exercise, swimming). Notice how it makes you feel and focus on that positive intention. Mindfulness is a time to feel connected and safe wherever you are. Smile and remember you have a purpose and reason for being in this moment, right now. Whatever your focus for mindfulness, use your heart rather than your head to get there. Feel each breath and think about kind words and peaceful thoughts as you settle into meditation. Loosen up on the self-talk about taking it easy when your mind drifts. Be kind, practice kindness, and remember you are the embodiment of what you think, say, and do. You are able to be wise, infinite and beautiful in this moment. Your soul is infinite and you are an infinite being, capable of kindness and love towards yourself and others. So, take time to find ways to incorporate kindfulness into your meditation practice and see what a difference it makes not just for you, but for others around you as well.
Oceanfront believes in the power of a mind, body, and spirit connection to keep you moving forward in recovery. Meditation and yoga are just a few ways, but kindness to yourself is always part of the process of recovery. Our goal is to help you learn patience, to see recovery as a day-by-day experience. We will give you the tools and resources to help you navigate recovery. Call us to find out how: 877-279-1777.
