Return to mindfulness

[Ella]

Hi,
almost twenty years ago (at the end of previous century ) I was a student and I was very interested in mindulness. I was practising sitting on the pillow at home, I was breathing consciously when I was on the bus, I was focusing on breathing when the lecture was boring.
Then I've started adult life (moving between home and work) and I've skipped my mindulness practise, I was just performing my tasks, duties and obligations
Now I need to practise mindulness againg to be more aware of the present moment and to be more aware of my everyday choices.
It was nice to find this forum. I quess sharing thoughts and experiences related to mindfulness may support my decision to practise regularly

[Gareth]

Hi Ella, and welcome to the forum.

Mindfulness practice seems to be so very difficult to maintain, so many people seem to struggle. Here at this forum, we try to encourage people to stay on the mindful path. The benefits are so massive.....

[JonW]

Hi Ella,
Welcome to the forum.
As Jon Kabat-Zinn says, "Mindfulness is simple, but it's not easy."
The challenging part is sustaining practice.
We're here to help and support if your resolve weakens.
Hope you're having a fab Xmas.
Cheers,
Jon

[hackneyedcliche]

I don't know if mindfulness should be an actual premeditated, planned event that is timed and coordinated, like an obligation. Most people begin to treat "mindfulness" as an actual course, or an academic achievement. I see it more as a way of living that aids us in discovering our true potential, relieving stress, and connecting to God (if you believe in God).

It's OK to fall from grace, and forget about practicing. We all have such deep-seeded mental programming that causes us to live on "autopilot." We are constantly running around aimlessly, rushing through everything only to wake up one day, 20 years older and wonder "where has the time gone?"

We are only human, and we only live & learn.

[JonW]

"I don't know if mindfulness should be an actual premeditated, planned event that is timed and coordinated, like an obligation."

It shouldn't, no.
But without regular formal practice, old habits (chattering mind, rumination, worry) are very likely to get a hold.
It doesn't have to be an obligation but it can become something that is stitched into the pattern of the day, like showering, brushing teeth etc.
If practice falters, then try again. No problem.
Jon

[Gareth]

I don't feel obliged to meditate, but I do meditate almost every day.

I see it akin to something like brushing my teeth. Mental hygiene vs. dental hygiene.

[piedwagtail91]

Same for me.
My 'formal' practice is part of my daily routine.
i wake quite early so meditation and yoga are a good use of my time as the world wakes up.
as a result I don't feel obliged to do it.
The rest of the day is opportunities be aware and put my practice to use, well hopefully.