For the First Time

I remember my first experience with a mindfulness meditation. I remember it as if it were here, now. My wife was reading about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy when she asked, "Do you mind if I guide you through a mindfulness meditation?" With such a gentle invite from one of the most intelligent and growth-seeking people I know, I openly agreed to give it a shot.

The next twenty minutes I began to discover new insights, my breath, solutions to problems, silence, calm, and peace. It was the first time in over 25 years where I actually took time to sit with myself...intentionally. I felt recharged, new even. As I sat there recalling memories...observing sensations...breathing...I began to visualize my stressors pulling away from me. I even remember imagining some people from work getting onto a bus and drive away from me. I felt more free from external stressors and more connected with internal experiences.

I have now come to learn that mindfulness is never just an exercise, a meditation, a deep breath...it is a way of living. Experiencing every moment as if it is new and present. I can look back now and see that certain activities and interactions I had while growing up involved mindfulness, but I wasn't aware then. Playing video games required purposeful awareness, of the present-moment (the game), without judgment. I was practicing mindfulness but wasn't aware. Without awareness, that is when we are most susceptible to being on autopilot; doing things just to do them or get them done. Being mindful allows you to be a part of doing that task or activity. 

In the beginning, we are all said to have the innate quality of mindfulness...the ability to pay attention. Certain experiences while we are growing push and pull our attention, our priorities, our development so that the way we focus is altered. Practicing mindfulness has helped me to improve my self-regulation and ability to control my own focus and direction in life. 

Years later, I am writing this blog and I am truly happy to know that I can help others begin living more mindfully. Each time you sit with yourself, you are sitting with new thoughts, new feelings, new sensations...for the first time.

Intentionally,

Brandon