"Daily Mindfulness Exercises to Reduce Stress and Improve Mental Clarity"

Have you ever noticed that when we are anxious or stressed, we automatically speed up? This is a direct result of the fight-or-flight response with which our nervous system is programmed. You may find yourself trying to do a million things at once or run at a million miles an hour, but this approach makes it ten times worse and reduces our ability to function.

Most of the stress and anxiety we deal with can be managed better with a counterintuitive response - by slowing down and being mindful! Mindfulness is the ability to remain present, to live fully in each moment, and to be aware of where we are and what we are doing. When we practice mindfulness, we’re practicing the art of creating space for ourselves—space to think, space to breathe, space between ourselves and our reactions. It's a skill everyone can learn and one that will greatly reduce daily stress and anxiety and allow you to move through life with more grace and ease. 

Here are some daily mindfulness activities you can try:  

• If you feel stressed/ anxious/worried take some time out and just pause for a moment - just notice what is going on in your mind and body. Now go make yourself a hot drink and do each preparation step slowly, mindfully and purposefully. Watch the water running from the tap as you fill-up the kettle, listen to the sound of the water boiling, watch the steam as you fill up your cup, smell the flavour, watch the water change colour as it brews and sip your cuppa slowly, engaging all of your senses.
  

• Nature is a healing energy, so as often as you can get outside and connect with mother nature. Stay off your phone and walk mindfully and purposefully. Take in all of your surroundings, look at the colours surrounding you, the sights and sounds, the smells - engage all of your senses and stay in the present moment noticing your feet on the ground as you walk step by step.
  

• Place your hands on your heart centre, take three deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. Imagine a bright white protective light all around you. Repeat to yourself, "I am present here in space and time. I am safe, I am protected, all is well."
  

• Breathe deeply and remind yourself that you are doing the best you can today and every day!