How to start

[Ecotheory]

Beginning my journey of adapting mindfulness to my daily life, the hurdle for me right now is how to I filter out the negative aspects of life other people and train my self/thoughts to focus on the less stressful events that trigger me into unhealthy thoughts.

[JonW]

Hi Ecotheory.
Welcome to the forum.
How are you learning about mindfulness? Are you doing a course with a qualified teacher? Through a book? Some other method?
All best,
Jon

[Ecotheory]

Hello JonW thank you for the welcome, in regards to mindfulness I am a Child and Youth Worker by profession so I have heard of mindfulness but I have never utilized it myself or with my clients but I think personally I need to do it for myself, so to answer your question I have never done a course to learn the strategy.

[JonW]

Hi Ecotheory,
Your best bet would be to find a qualified teacher in your area who can take you through the 8-week mindfulness course, either 1-2-1 or in a group situation. Online courses are also available.
If those are not options for you, then you can follow the course via a book. I would highly recommend Finding Peace In A Frantic World by Mark Williams and Danny Penman which comes with a CD of guided meditations.
Meanwhile, please feel free to ask us any questions you like. We'll always endeavour to do our best to help and advise.
Best wishes,
Jon

[paulpsych]

Hi ecotheory
In mindfulness terms there's not really such thing as positive or negative. Life events happen - that's something you can't stop. Mindfulness is about seeing thoughts and feelings as "events" which come and go, and it helps you to become less "stuck" to them - in time.
I didn't have a teacher, but I've immersed myself in the subject for some time now - reading, watching videos and practising, but as Jon says it's helpful to find a teacher if you're struggling with some concepts
Kind regards
Paul

[FeeHutch]

Hi Ecotheory
Welcome to our community. I second the suggestion to seek out a mindfulness teacher. I am a counsellor and often see introduction to mindfulness training events advertised as part of continuing personal development. Do you have access to similar events as part of your role and if you don't could you request it? It could be a great way of finding out more about mindfulness and also where mindfulness teachers are based near you.