Embrace the magic of mindfulness with these four easy exercises, utilising daily activities to blend seamlessly into your day

Eating

Something we do every day, but when was the last time you really savoured the moment while you ate? Drop the multitasking and step away from screens. Focus on the texture of your food – how does it feel in your mouth? What flavours can you dissect in each bite? How do you feel?

Creativity

Whatever your craft – drawing, painting, writing, crochet – take the time to really be present in the creation, with less focus on the outcome. Listen to your needles brush against each other, or the pencil on paper. What are you feeling? Where do your thoughts go?

Exercise

Whether you’re going for a high-intensity sweat-sesh, or a walk around the block, connect with your body and the sensations as you move. Can you feel your pulse quicken, or the breeze on your skin?

Rest

A quiet moment to reconnect with your body. Simply sit, or lie, and focus on your breathing. What can you see, hear, feel, smell? A gentle hum of the heating, birds outside, a tap dripping? Let go of all the distractions and let your senses explore the moment.

Top tips for mindfulness

Awareness
Focus on the moment, acknowledging all your senses, and taking in the detail in everyday activities.

Free your mind
Allow your mind to roam – go with it!

Return to the moment
Bring yourself back by returning your attention to what’s happening, either through something you feel, your breathing, a sound…

Embrace your emotions
Open yourself up to your feelings, and become really aware of them. Allow them to be, with no judgement or expectations.

For more information on mindfulness visit counselling-directory.org.uk