Mindfulness

Reflect

When do I feel happiest?

When do I feel most like “me”?

How often do I live in the moment? What does that phrase mean to me?

What are some words or images that come to mind when I think of mindfulness?

And most importantly before moving forward: am I reading this and learning out of obligation or willingness?

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment. Keeping our thoughts centered on who, what, where, and why we are right now has been proven to help us overcome stress and depression and find balance in daily life. It can even keep you from developing some serious illnesses. Especially as students hurrying from class to class, completing task after task, the ability to calm the constant cacophony in our minds is a crucial skill. 

Mindfulness transcends the stereotypical “sit in a corner silently” image that may come to mind; you can be mindful anywhere, anytime, whilst doing anything. It includes practices like yoga (pictured). The best part of the whole thing is that no complex equipment or experience is required, and there is no judgment, no competition, and no evaluation involved.

Mindful Music

Music is a great release and scientific evidence shows it’s great for self-expression and cognitive processes. The difference between just listening to music and listening to music mindfully is simply noticing. Slow down and follow this easy, four-step process.

  • Instead of pressing play and tuning out, settle in.

  • Notice beats, notes, even lyrics that you really like; focus on just one of these things.

  • Ask yourself what you love about the piece; go beyond surface-level descriptions.

  • And then, just appreciate it! Bob your head, close your eyes, whatever works for you. Enjoy!

Baroque music and lo-fi music are two popular options for mindful music practices. Try the above-outlined noticing routine out with the lo-fi playlist intended to help you slow down, find calm and be more present below.

Mindful Coloring

While you’re listening, you might try out a coloring page. Use your Kinkaid Adobe account to create a coloring page here or check out Crayola’s free coloring page resource. Notice during this exercise as well.

Notice how your writing utensil feels in your hand, how the page fills with color, the types of strokes you use, as well as the texture of the page and the nib of your writing utensil. Let go of any and all judgment of your artistic skills; you're not making this for anyone else, just to help you be present in the moment.

Take A Nature Walk

Walks in nature were associated with significantly lower rates of depression, perceived stress, and a more positive attitude in a study conducted by the University of Michigan. Walking synergizes physical activity with stress relief, and it’s a great way to get some fitness into your workday.

 Student-Led Meditations

Mindful Spots on Campus

  • Houstoun Plaza

  • The Quad

  • Harrison Lawn

  • Kel's Hill

  • Learning Center

  • Carpool Benches

  • The Patio

  • Moran Courtyard

  • Moran Study Rooms

  • Kayem Library

  • The Backyard

  • Ms. Forster's Classroom