Simple things

If you read my blog post "habit" then you know that I mentioned using mindfulness techniques to sort of...cool down the world of the mind. Mindfulness is nothing more then practicing a kind of awareness of what is around you (outside of you) without judgment that serves as a kind of "distress tolerance." In other words, if you are in some kind of internal distress this is something you can do to give yourself a little break from it all and help you find your balance again. It literally takes about 2 minutes a day and you can do it anywhere.

Here are some of the exercises:

1. While driving (to work or wherever) turn off the radio and begin to look at what you are passing on the way to where you are going. Trees, signs, buildings people. Notice simple facts about them like "the tree is big, the sign is orange and white, the building is grey" stay away from words like pretty, beautiful, ugly, nice etc. those are judgement words - you simply want to become aware of the reality of the form of life around you.

2. Find something in your home or office and take a few moments to notice everything about it. Again, avoid any type of judgement and simply notice its reality.

3. Light a candle and watch the flame, try to notice all of its movement.

4. Watch your pet, they are endlessly entertaining.