So, What exactly is mindfulness??

It's no secret that life is full of unforeseen changes, challenges, and chaotic times. It's so easy to be swept away by the seemingly endless list of chores, tasks, and deadlines that seem to pile up without you even realizing it. This cycle that is the norm for so many can cause you to feel rundown in your body, mind, and spirit. Once you find yourself feeling this way, it can seem nearly impossible to wake yourself back up to the beauty and benefits of life. This can feel frustrating and potentially bring a sense of overwhelm which can then cause you to feel completely hopeless and tired of your own life, and your health, both physically and mentally, may suffer. Luckily, there is a way to improve your life even during the most chaotic or stressful of times. Many studies have shown that mindfulness is a key technique for improving your body, mind, and spirit no matter the situation, even times of chaos.
This is where Mindfulness comes in! Mindfulness is the act of being in the present, but there is more to it than that. Mindfulness is the ability to be completely in the present, as opposed to thinking about the past, future, or any other event that takes us away from the present time. Being mindful includes being aware of where we are, what we are doing, and how we feel. More so, it includes being in touch with ourselves, knowing our limits, and understanding our goals and desires for life.
All people are capable of mindfulness, even if it seems hard. Our brains are completely capable of focusing on the present and tuning out the distractions of life. With that being said, it can be incredibly difficult to do this, which is why mindfulness practices are so helpful. Practicing mindfulness can teach us and train us to better focus on the present, allowing us to tune out anything else that may be a distraction or take away from our sense of peace and calm. The more you practice, the easier it will be for you to tap into your inner peace.
Many people believe that mindfulness is about attaining some state of bliss. Bliss is often described as some state of perfect happiness that is oblivious to other factors surrounding it. It is important to recognize that mindfulness is not about reaching a state of bliss. This state is impossible to reach because there will always be challenges and difficulties in life that disrupt this so-called state. With that being said, mindfulness can and should make you feel happier and more content with your overall life, and is a very realistic approach. It helps you see past short-term struggles and appreciate the life you have, even during some of the more difficult times you may experience. It's important to keep in mind that Mindfulness is not about creating a perfect life, but it is about creating the life you want and are excited to live.