Spectrum Talks: Mindfulness
We’re all about mindfulness here at Spectrum – but what is mindfulness exactly? For us, it’s about being fully in tune with the present, giving ourselves time to breathe and paying attention to what our minds and bodies need.
We really wanted to hear from our Spectrum sisters on the topic – what does mindfulness mean to you, what do you do daily to keep your stress levels down, and is meditation key? There are so many mindfulness exercises and techniques out there!
To find out more and get some insight into how we can be more mindful, we’ve just hosted a Spectrum Talk over on Twitter. Find out everything we learned below.
What Does Mindfulness Mean?
At its core, mindfulness is about being fully aware and in-tune with the present. For many, it’s also a state of mind. It can be about how you treat yourself – as well as how you treat others.
Taking care of my mental health; treating myself and others with love, worth and respect
— Ilean Angulo (@alienUnicorn__) May 18, 2021
Yes, we love this. Treat others how you want to be treated.
Mindfulness doesn’t have to take hours, either!
Having a few minutes to myself, where my brain is calm, and not trying to run at 90mph
— Deanna Troi 🖖🏻💛 (@miniabbysciuto) May 18, 2021
How Do You Practice Mindfulness?
There are loads of different ways to be mindful – it’s about what works best for you. Here are some top mindfulness exercises you said you love:
- Breathing techniques
- Meditation
- Listening to calming music
Others like to get a little physical:
I do @yogawithadriene every morning which has totally changed my life! It focuses me on gratitude and intentions in a very simple way!
— Pandora 🐝 🏳️⚧️ 🏳️🌈 (@JustPandora_x) May 18, 2021
Yoga, yes! Mindfulness isn’t all about sitting still – a yoga routine can really get you thinking about your body and your breath. But then on the other hand, for some it’s important to have a little down time.
I read a book. It's such a great stress Relief.
— Ja-Nee| Curly Head (@whoisNee) May 18, 2021
This is another one we just adore. Reading a good book can be so therapeutic.
Digital Detox: Yes or No?
It’s so nice to switch off sometimes – from social media, emails and everything digital. Putting away your phone and having a digital detox can make it easier to be mindful. It means you have less distractions, and you can really focus on how you’re feeling.
So, what do we think? Well, it looks like the digi detox is pretty popular…
I've done a detox. It felt pretty good. Paying attention to real life and being there more available.
— Ja-Nee| Curly Head (@whoisNee) May 18, 2021
Yes, social media can be toxic from time to time, and doing a digital detox its like cleansing your mind and soul from that toxicity
— Ilean Angulo (@alienUnicorn__) May 18, 2021
We’re with you babes, it feels good to take a step back sometimes! It’s all about choice though – as well as timing.
I've tried, but I get lonely as my social life is confined to my phone due to distance
— Deanna Troi 🖖🏻💛 (@miniabbysciuto) May 18, 2021
Our social lives have all been virtual for ages, and even with restrictions easing that’s still true. If digitally detoxing is going to make you feel isolated instead of refreshed, avoid.
Mindfulness and Gratitude
Thinking about what’s going well and what we’re thankful for is part of our mindful practice. Listing all the good things in our lives is a great way of changing our mindset and being present. We asked what our Spectrum sisters are thankful for and it was so wholesome! Here are some of our fave answers.
My husband who is the most supportive person in the world! FACT!
— Pandora 🐝 🏳️⚧️ 🏳️🌈 (@JustPandora_x) May 18, 2021
My kids who amaze me constantly with the people they are becoming!
My pupster who gives me hugs at all the right times! #therapydog
Life, health, family, shelter. So much to be thankful for. 💚💚💚💚
— Ja-Nee| Curly Head (@whoisNee) May 18, 2021
Chocolate (to console me after disappointment)
— Deanna Troi 🖖🏻💛 (@miniabbysciuto) May 18, 2021
Red Bull (because it's keeping me going)
Makeup (because I look bloody terrible!)
Umm actually babes I think you’ll find this is our list!
What are the Best Mindfulness Apps?
We talked earlier about ditching your phone for a digital detox, but there are a lot of great ways you can use it to be more mindful.
When it comes to mindfulness apps, your favourite by miles is Headspace. With sleep tips, meditation and loads of mindfulness exercises and information, this is a great place to start.
You also recommended:
I use YouTube and listen to relaxing sounds or music. I turn it on for my girls at night and it helps them sleep better. 🙂
— Ja-Nee| Curly Head (@whoisNee) May 18, 2021
This is such a great suggestion – and it’s free too!
I don’t know any apps but I recommend writing
— Ilean Angulo (@alienUnicorn__) May 18, 2021
This we love too. Journaling really helps with perspective.
There are also lots of great books out there – we picked some of our favourites in our blog, The Best Self-Help Books.
Be Mindful In Your Own Way
We’ve loved hearing all about the different ways you practice mindfulness and what it means to you. From meditation to makeup, the world is your oyster darlings.
If you’re new to mindfulness, we hope this blog has given you a little inspo! There are a ton of benefits if you do get started. Did you know: mindfulness can…
- Reduce stress
- Improve awareness
- Help you sleep better
- Improve your focus
Mindfulness can sometimes even improve your physical health, too! So it’s pretty amazing to be honest.
Want to read more about self-care and mindfulness? You can find more advice on our blog. And, if you loved this recap of our Spectrum Talk, why not join us over on Twitter! We chat about a new topic every Tuesday.