New to Mindfulness? Start Here!

“Mindfulness” definitely a word that’s gained popularity in the last few years. There are tons of journals, videos, podcasts and more that try to tell you about this new term that’s supposedly going to change your life. Here’s the crazy thing- it actually will. If you’re new to mindfulness, you’re going to want to learn about it here so you can feel more focused and energized while learning Spanish.

Intro for those new to mindfulness

So, what is mindfulness, exactly? According to experts in the field, mindfulness is “the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.” It sounds nice, doesn’t it? Basically, mindfulness is putting away distractions and being completely open to the here and now.

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Life is fast-paced, and technology makes it even easier to get lost in the past, the future, and what’s going on in the world. It can be overwhelming to be overly consumed with things that don’t necessarily concern us, and having constant access to all of the information in the world. That’s exactly where mindfulness comes in. Put the world away, and get in touch with yourself.

Back to basics

When you’re new to mindfulness and just starting out, it can be tricky to know where to begin. In addition, if there aren’t any classes or courses near you, it can be overwhelming to try it on your own. The good news is, you don’t have to have any prior knowledge or skills. Just follow these steps, as outlined by experts.

1. Dedicate time to mindfulness. Find a nice space that’s quiet and private.
2. Pay attention to the present moment and everything immediately around you. Focus on your senses.
3. Let your thoughts come and go. Don’t fixate on anything in particular. Feel them move through you.
4. Be kind to yourself and don’t judge.

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That’s it! That’s all there is to it. Once you start practicing, you might notice that you’re seeing things more positively, and are learning with a growth mindset. You might feel more ready to take on Spanish courses or practice with native speakers. After getting in the habit of mindfulness, you’ll feel like a better version of yourself.