Mindfulness and Stress Release Reminders
Stress Release reminders recently was compared to the Buddha practice "Mindfulness"
Online, March 29, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Life can be found only in the present moment. The past is gone, the future is not yet here, and if we do not go back to ourselves in the present moment, we cannot be in touch with life.~ Thich Nhat Hanh~
"Mindfulness" or being "mindful" is being aware of your present moment. You are not judging, reflecting or thinking. You are simply observing the moment in which you find yourself.
Just recently, Stress Release Reminders was compared to the Buddha practice Mindfulness. Clinical studies have proven that mindful techniques can alleviate stress and anxiety. The key is to practice the technique often. This is why Stress Release Reminders is a valuable tool. It is there to remind you until a habit is formed, and becomes a natural response.
Almost 2,500 years ago, Siddhartha Guautama, the Buddha who founded buddhism, taught the practice of Mindfulness. It was the 7th step of the Noble Eightfold Path. It is considered a disciplined form of meditation and not a religious practice. When you are in the state of mindfulness, you are aware of the moment. You are not dwelling on the past nor worrying about the future. You are focused on your breath, and your body.
This is very similar to the first and second steps in the Stress Release Reminders calming technique.
* Taking a deep breath. It allows oxygen to your brain & calms the nervous system.
* Then, the second step is to relax muscle tension. There is no better way to become aware of your body then by doing this step, because you are scanning your pressure points from head to toe, feeling the tension, and then relaxing the pressure. This allows proper blood flow, and alleviates sore muscles and can help with bone disorders.
In the practice of Mindfulness, you are to bring awareness to one thing in the moment.
* In the third step of the Stress Release Reminders, you are to center your thoughts to what is most important to you. When you remind yourself of your goals, it is easier to understand and to eliminate unnecessary stress. What I mean is, if there is an aggravation in your day, then ask yourself, "Will this get me to my ultimate goal?" If not, it is not worth your time, and let it go. This will reinforce positive living, and give you control over stress.
Mindfulness and Stress Release Reminders are not exactly the same techniques, but do have a lot of similarities. They both bring awareness to the moment, allowing healthier habits to be formed. Users of the stress management program have reported that with in the first month of practicing the technique, healthier habits have been formed, and positive lifestyle is gained.