Just Breathe

A few years ago, a counselor recommended a book for me to read. It was on the practice of mindfulness. In a nutshell, it involves a little bit of meditation to focus on what’s going on in the present moment. Ronald D. Siegel, PsyD, author of “The Mindfulness Solution” says that it is an “awareness of personal experience with acceptance.” Ultimately, it’s all about the attitude of one’s experiences, regardless of whether they are considered good or bad.

Using deep breathing techniques, a mindfulness practitioner tries to clear her mind and just focus on being, right now. If negative thoughts intrude, she is encouraged to acknowledge them and let them pass. This kind of “therapy” has been practiced by many different cultures and peoples throughout centuries. And, the practice of deep, mindful breathing has powerful effects on the brain, the body, and the psyche.

George Leonard, author of “Mastery,” shares his own ideas of this concept. He encourages us to “acknowledge the negative and accentuate the positive.” When we couple this with regular physical exercise, we direct our energies into positive channels. Regular exercise and meditation coincides with Habit #1 in Steven Covey’s “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” be proactive.

By taking action in this one area, we can effect change within ourselves that can be a first step to a successful journey.