Mindfulness is all about being calmly and fully engaged in the present.
Instead of paying attention to every little distraction,
focusing on what you’re doing now can assist in relieving stress.
While we’re not experts in this therapeutic technique,
here are eight simple ways that we find helpful in practicing mindfulness.
1.
Write thoughts in a journal
Keeping all of your worries and anxieties inside
can make them seem bigger than they actually are.
Try writing them down in a notebook.
One method is for every worry you write down,
you also write down something you were thankful for.
This can help you focus on the big picture and puts our anxieties in perspective.
You can use any notebook or pen you like,
but it’s worthwhile to choose a pen that writes well.
We recommend the Zebra bLen--
it’s carefully engineered to never rattle or vibrate,
providing a stress-free writing experience.
2.
Create art with whatever you have
Dig out your old colored pencils or
maybe that watercolor palette you bought but never used.
Drawing or painting can instantly lift your spirits
and channel your energy towards creating something beautiful.
If you’re not sure what to draw, follow a tutorial
like our How to Paint Watercolor Flowers video, and learn a new technique.
3.
Color in a coloring book
If seeing a blank page adds to your stress, try a coloring book instead!
The repetitive motion of coloring in a limited, controlled space
provides order and calm to your mind and gives you an achievable goal.
4.
Send snail mail to a friend
Doing something nice for someone else is a great way to take your mind off your worries.
Sending a letter or note to a friend not only helps strengthen your friendship,
it lets the recipient know that you’re thinking of them.
You can even add a blank notecard
and self-addressed envelope to make it easy for your friend to respond!
If you have older relatives who may be isolated,
mailing them a card or letter can really brighten up their day.
5.
Talk to someone
Remember that you’re not alone.
Building strong relationships is good for your health --
having a good support system can help you cope with anxiety.
A simple call or video chat is a great way to reach out to friends and family.
You can also find a number of communities online full of people to connect with.
6.
Do some light cleaning
Studies show that mundane tasks like cleaning can actually be calming.
If you’re a fountain pen user, use the time you clean your pens as a mindfulness exercise.
Watch our video on How to Clean Your Fountain Pens
for some tips to get your pens sparkling clean.
7.
Unplug and meditate
Meditating might be an obvious answer to counter stress,
but it’s harder to sit still than you think.
If you’ve been on your device for more than 30 minutes, pause this video,
go to a quiet spot, and meditate for five minutes.
Closing your eyes and taking deep breaths is a great way to start.
8.
Take a walk outside or do other exercises
If you just can’t sit still, it’s okay --
moving around can be just as meditative!
Doing simple stretches, walking, biking, or any other exercises release endorphins,
your body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.
Being outside in nature also helps lower stress;
studies show that even having a potted plant in a room can assist in reducing anxiety!
We hope we’ve inspired you to try some of these mindful exercises!
Stay safe and healthy out there.
Thanks for watching and we’ll see you in the next video!