Mindfulness - Is it already the 2nd week of the year?!

A Few Mindful Questions for January 2021

mlj

Source: salzmanart.com

Resolving to be mindful this year. What?! It’s the 10th already?

Both for my 'work' and myself, the topic of mindfulness is something that I'm quite interested in and comes across in one way or another every day. In English language tutoring, it is a good topic of conversation which comes with some interesting self-realizations, often for the student and even at times for me though I’ve asked the question to myself and others. In any case, it’s a pleasant journey.

Here's the etymology of the word ‘mindfullness’

mindfulness (n.)

1520s, "attention, heedfulness; intention, purpose," from mindful + -ness. As "psychological process of bringing one's attention to experiences in the present moment," as developed through meditation, etc., it was in use by 1995; the word was used since late 19th century in translations of Buddhist texts (for sati).

(Source: https://www.etymonline.com/word/mindfulness)

Mindfulness is said to be a Buddhist inspired collection of practices that consist of three parts: Intention, Attention, and Attitude. How long should you do it? Well, there is an ‘old Zen’ saying:

“You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes every day—unless you’re too busy. Then you should sit for an hour.

There’s no secret, that though I teach it, I need it just as much as anyone I help guide along on the journey. The first tip I would share is try and make mindfulness your own personal quiet time. Start small. 5 minutes or 10 is good. Try and do it the same time each day, as even though it isn’t always pleasing to hear – discipline is the precursor of freedom.

So, I wanted to share five questions, especially the ones that I think provoked rather interesting discussions with the children, teenagers, and adults that I talked with both together and on our own. Just a few questions to make you ponder…. J d we

1. What is a scent that you find soothing?

2. What is the compliment that you receive the most?

3. What is one habit you’d like to break and one you’d like to make?

4. What is your favorite things about your personality?

5. What is one thing that ever child (or adult) needs in 2021?

#2021 #askingquestions #mindfulness #cultivatewhatmatters #mindfulnessquestions