10 Tips for Being Mindful in Daily Life

We can build our ability to be mindful both through formal and informal practices. Formal practices are exercises such as meditation, yoga, or other specific activities we take time out of our days for. Informal practices are simple habits we can practice in our daily lives and activities, regardless of what we are doing.

Observe the present moment

Just notice the time, space, and place you are in, right now. The practice of mindfulness invites us to be in this very moment, without judgment. We are aware and awake.

Bring your attention to your breath

Invite yourself to feel your breath moving in and out of your body. Notice places of tension or ease. Just continue to breathe. There is no need to change anything. Just notice. Mindfulness practices often use the breath to bring us to the present moment.

Slow down

Most of us live our lives feeling rushed and hectic. We are constantly jumping from one thing to the next. Allowing ourselves to mindfully slow down can help us relax and recharge. Pay attention to what you are doing in the moment, and do it with intent and purpose.

Bring attention to your sense

With an open and curious mind, invite yourself to bring attention to your senses. Notice your inner and outer surroundings. Notice the sights, smells, taste, feelings (physical or emotional), and sounds. We have a lot of opportunity to practice mindfulness within ourselves and all around us.

Notice how you feel in your body

Notice any sensations in your body, whether you're sitting, standing, or in movement. Perhaps these sensations are subtle or obvious. Remember that awareness can help our mindfulness grow. Our bodies are a perfect place to tune in. We can observe and practice awareness.

Notice when your mind has wandered

Then, simply bring it back to your breath. It is the nature of mind to wander. Our practice is to (gently) guide it back to the present moment… again and again. The more we practice directing our focus, the more easily we can do it when we need to.

Take a moment to be grateful

Expressing gratitude gives us the opportunity to pause. Appreciate whatever you have. It may be the roof over your head, your family or loved ones, or merely even your breath or a beautiful sunrise.

Engage in mindful eating

Mindful eating allows us the chance to tune into our body. We can be aware of what it is our body truly needs. Often we eat while rushed and on the go. We can be disconnected from what we need or how our food even tastes. When you’re eating, only eat. Mindful eating, even one bite at a time, allows us to truly nourish ourselves with (loving) attention.

Have a conversation without distraction

We frequently multitask when talking to others. This makes us miss what the person is truly saying. Give yourself the opportunity to be present with another. Mindful listening allows us a deeper chance to connect and to appreciate and support one another. When we build genuine connections with others, our own ability to manage stress improves.

Show compassion and kindness

Being mindful of others, having empathy, and expressing compassion and kindness is a gift not only to others, but is important to our own well-being. Our relationships with others can help build our sense of identity and resilience. In practicing compassion and kindness, we are also practicing patience, non-judgment, and other attitudinal foundations of mindfulness.