Mindfulness

If there is one thing that I have learned about nurses, it is that we do not take care of ourselves. We are constantly caring for others--not only patients, but our own family members and friends--that we often don't stop to think about what we are doing to care for our own self. With this in mind, I would like to highlight the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness can not only be applied to nurses, but to everyone and most every facet of life. So if you have ever been stressed or anxious, then continue reading for a practice that could help decrease stress in your day-to-day life.

Psychology today defines mindfulness as, " a state of active, open attention on the present. When you're mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of letting your life pass you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience" (2014).  (source: http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/mindfulness)

The following article describes mindfulness today and how it is impacting the United States currently. It is important to recognize that the practice has everyday use and is being widely applied. It helps to decrease stress and anxiety and promote awareness in the individual (Socolovsky, 2014). (source: http://www.voanews.com/content/mindful-movement-becomes-revolution-as-stressed-americans-look-for-relief/1956071.html)

The purpose of my next few posts will be to review the internet for the best sources surrounding mindfulness practices.