Whether acknowledged or not, we’ve all experienced at least a few gratifying “living in the moment” moments that were impromptu and remarkable for their impact. Think of a natural vista you may have stumbled upon – say, in the course of a hike – an awesome waterfall or a sunset that took your breath away. Or think of the magic of the first fall of giant snowflakes in winter – that always makes me pause. Such happy moments that take us outside of ourselves and yet connect us to the universe are what we seek in the pursuit of “mindfulness.”

Mindfulness has the power to enrich even the most mundane task with meaningfulness. Mindful experiences are stress-free and bring inner peace, and ultimately, greater productivity. I know this yet I still catch myself busy at multitasking with goal-oriented endeavours. I live in modern times—it’s hard not to do this.

But I remember to pause sometimes in my activities. I have had the good fortune to study with  masters, so I take a deep breath, and I revisit their teachings. I also take heed of my own lessons – lessons that I’ve had the privilege to share formally as a presenter, counsellor, and motivational speaker.

At one coaching session, I had included a lesson on mindfulness. One participant said, after:

“ I learned from you that when I focus all my energy on the task at hand, I am filled with joy, inner peace, and the stress disappears.”

Such genuine praise really lit up the moment for me.

That is the gift of mindfulness. Through mindfulness, you can learn how to give yourself the gift of inner peace and joy – watch for upcoming workshops or counselling sessions or ask for personal guidance. Achieving mindfulness to enhance all aspects of your life–will affect your health and wellness (and what you find you can achieve!) in many ways.

Namaste

MAKE THREE CHANGES AND IMPROVE YOUR LIFE—

Everywhere we turn today, we encounter guidelines and tips for improving fitness, increasing energy, fighting fat, how to live longer, etc., including here or in my newsletters. We can’t watch TV or explore online without coming across ways to get more healthy, wealthy, and wise. If you’re interested but feeling a little overwhelmed or not sure where to start, a good way to get a new lifestyle plan off the ground is to apply the rule of three.

Plan to isolate THREE things you will do to embrace greater health. This helps make your progress manageable and ultimately successful.
Pick three from the suggestions listed below. Let me know which three are on your list. Alex

1. Give up for three to five days every week foods that are not so good for you. These may be acid, gluten, and yeasty foods, such as fried, rich dairy products, carbonated sugar or diet beverages, beef and pork, gluten breads (including all whole wheat, multi-grain bread, sugar in all forms), and alcoholic beverages. Eat less of these types of foods because they can create inflammation and a predisposition to a more acidic milieu in the body that predisposes the body to illness and weakened immune and digestive systems.
2. Incorporate new healthy food into your daily food plan, such as healthier dairy products (yogurt, goat cheese, cottage cheese, rice cheese products, and kefir), more fish, poultry, gluten-free grains (millet, quinoa, brown rice, amaranth, ezekiel, and buckwheat), and gluten-reduced products (rye, kamut, and spelt). The suggested foods will reduce inflammation, improve elimination, and reduce bloating. You’ll also have increased energy and an improved emotional state.
3. Increase your exercise regime or if you do not workout, introduce a gentle exercise – perhaps 20 minutes twice a week.
4. Take 30 minutes every week to explore creativity such as music, art, writing, or any other form of personal expression.
5. Practice mindfulness – “be in the moment” by taking time to be still and at peace. Fifteen minutes of meditation will facilitate this state.
6. Reach out and open your heart to somebody or volunteer at a charity. This process helps others and lightens any emotional pain you may have.