Why, particularly for retirement-age individuals, is mindfulness so important? In fact, what is it exactly? When you make yourself aware of what you’re sensing and feeling right now, and focus intensely on yourself, you are experiencing mindfulness. You’re not worrying, not thinking about the future, and you’re not thinking about the past. Without any interruption or judgment, you’re completely devoted to being in the present.
Because of mindfulness’s importance, we will examine some mindfulness activities to help you decrease stress, depression, and anxiety. They also may help you with emotion regulation.
All of this is, of course, easier said than done in some cases. So, to help you along, here are the activities just referenced. If you reside in an independent living community, you should be able to accomplish each of these with no trouble.
Take a Walk
The importance of walking is nothing new, and something you’ve probably heard about your entire life. However, particularly for those in their golden years, this particular mindfulness activity is useful. Sometimes, when certain individuals sit completely still, they have a hard time staying focused. Sound familiar? If so, the activity you may benefit more from could be mindful walking. What’s the difference between just plain walking and mindful walking?
For the area in which you decide to take a walk, make sure that it is not overpopulated, and it’s peaceful and quiet. While walking, focus on your surroundings and on the feeling of walking. Bring your mind back around to where it belongs if it starts to wander. As you look around, focus intently on how beautiful the colors are. On your face, how does the breeze feel? On the ground, how does it feel when your feet touch down?
Do Some Journaling
One great method of expression is to write down your feelings through journaling. If it’s hard for you to focus on breathing exercises (see below), this method of sitting quietly and writing mindfully in a journal may be a better option. This can be as unstructured or as structured as you prefer. If you’d like this activity to be structured, come up with a topic that will last a while. Every day, you can focus on it and write about it. If unstructured time is preferred, simply concentrate on the moment and write down what you’re feeling. You can describe the mood you’re in, your intentions for the day, your future goals, etc. It’s your journal – it’s up to you to mindfully write what you choose.
Breathe
Of course, you’re going to breathe. This refers to breathing exercises as a way to practice mindfulness. Find a place where, without interruption, you can sit quietly and close your eyes. On your breathing, focus all of your attention. As you breathe in and out, how does your body feel? Continue a natural breathing pattern. Don’t force anything. When you’re first starting out, do this for about five minutes. Over time, you can increase your sessions.
Mindfulness
Particularly for retirement-age individuals, one important practice is that of mindfulness. It can help you become more relaxed, be healthier, and enjoy a happier life.
Our Independent Living Community Encourages Mindfulness and Fun Activities
In our Independent Living community, you will be able to enjoy the quiet time you need in your residence if there’s too much going on outside of it. You can walk around the grounds if you don’t want to travel to a park or other local area. Feel free to engage in journaling at your leisure. We also have programs to encourage physical and mental health and wellness.
