You know that feeling that comes over you when you step into a steamy shower and feel the hot water raining down your back? Or when you slow down to savor the last creamy bite of cheesecake? Or after you get home from a jam-packed day and take a few secs before hitting the books to pet your pup's silky ears? Those are all mini moments of mindfulness. And added up, they count toward your overall sense of calm and well-being.
THE BIG PICTURE
You hear a lot of talk about mindfulness...and for good reason. Studies show mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has real results including reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality and better ability to cope with stress. But buzzwords aside, what *is* mindfulness, and how can it do all that for you?
Mindfulness is about becoming more deeply aware of the moment as it is unfolding. It's noticing your senses, thoughts, feelings and physical sensations, says psychotherapist Gina Biegel, creator of Stressed Teens, a program offering MBSR training.
Mindfulness allows you to be present in your life-even for the painful moments. It can help you tap into (and process) how you're truly feeling. It can even change how you respond to stress.
When you aren't being mindful, you tend to be tuned out or on autopilot, Biegel says, adding that it's like driving to a destination without noticing how you got there. Instead of taking in the scenery, you're bypassing the entire journey.
I use mindfulness to stop my thoughts from drifting in class when I'm supposed to be paying attention, says Ariana K., 17. By noticing my body and being present, I am able to focus more.
The best part? You can practice mindfulness anywhere. Observing when you've zoned out and bringing your mind back to the moment is the first step. But mindfulness isn't just about paying attention-it's about deciding where you place your attention.
This story is from the August/September 2022 edition of Girls' Life magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August/September 2022 edition of Girls' Life magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Why aren't you and your crush together already
Six reasons you aren't dating for real... yet.
A love letter to myself (and all the single girls out there)
This year, I’m my own Valentine. And not only is that OK—it’s kind of amazing, tbh.
WELCOME TO YOUR winter workout WONDERLAND
DON'T LET THE COLD TEMPS FOOL YOU-WE'RE OFFICIALLY ENTERING PEAK FITNESS SZN.
Low-key missing lockdown
Yeah, staying home was weird, but it also was kind of...nice?
Dear Carol
I don’t know if my crush likes me back
THE PRETTIEST PARTS
Changing the way you wear your hair is quick, easy and doesn't even require a major makeover (or a single scissor snip!).
Lucky Girl Syndrome
just became your thing
WHAT'S YOUR GALENTINE'S SUPERPOWER?
We’re 1,000% sure your besties would agree: You’re caring, supportive and pretty much all-around amazing to have as a friend.
Meet You at The Ballet Barre
Pull on your tights and channel your inner prima ballerina.
KyliE Cantrall is just trusting the universe
...and it's giving some serious heart eyes (and star power) right back.