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Mindfulness

Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment. Slow deep breaths can help calm your body when you feel stressed.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

Try breathing in for 4 counts and out for 4 counts.

All about Mindfulness

Mindfulness means paying gentle attention to the present moment, noticing what you see, hear, smell, feel and think without judging it. It can help you feel calmer, more focused and more able to handle difficult feelings.

Simple mindfulness practices include slow, deep breathing, noticing five things you can see, or focusing on the feeling of your feet on the floor. Practising for a few minutes each day can make it easier to pause before reacting when you feel stressed.

You might notice the feeling of your feet on the floor, the sounds around you or the taste of your food. Practising mindfulness can help you feel calm and focused.

Breathe in through your nose for a count of four, hold for a moment and breathe out slowly through your mouth. Repeating this a few times can help you feel more relaxed.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

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๐Ÿ‘€ What the animation shows

This animation shows a circle that grows as you breathe in and shrinks as you breathe out. Watch the slow rhythm and try to match your breathing to it.

Real-life uses of Mindfulness

  • Calming down before a test
  • Falling asleep more easily at night
  • Noticing and enjoying small moments during the day

Frequently asked questions about Mindfulness

Is mindfulness the same as meditation?

Meditation is one way to practise mindfulness. Mindfulness can also be done during everyday activities like eating or walking.

How long should I practise?

Even two or three minutes a day can help. Short practice regularly is better than long sessions occasionally.

What if my mind keeps wandering?

That is normal. Notice that your mind has wandered, then gently bring your attention back to your breathing.