For today's column, I have decided to continue sharing on Conscious Mindfulness because so many of my readers called me up to share their comments, impressions and words of appreciation for such a timely subject. It opened my eyes to the fact that indeed everyone wants to be conscious of their behavior and way of life that impacts our day-to-day existence. Here, then, is part two:
Conscious mindfulness involves paying attention to our thoughts, emotions and physical sensations with a sense of curiosity and acceptance. In a rapidly changing and disruptive world, practicing conscious mindfulness can manage uncertainty and unpredictability. It allows us to acknowledge our emotions and thoughts without being overwhelmed by them, helping to reduce anxiety and stress associated with uncertainty and unpredictability.
With the advent of technology and constant distractions, maintaining focus has become increasingly challenging. Mindfulness encourages us to cultivate a focused and undivided attention on the task at hand.
By training the mind to be present, we can improve our ability to concentrate, make more informed decisions, and enhance overall productivity. In disruptive times, our emotional intelligence becomes crucial for effective communication and relationship building.
Conscious mindfulness enables us to become more aware of our emotions and the emotions of others. By developing empathy and compassion, we can navigate challenging situations with greater understanding, foster positive relationships and promote collaboration in an environment of change.
Disruption often requires innovative thinking and problem-solving while conscious mindfulness practice encourages us to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and an open mind.
By training the mind to be non-judgmental and receptive, we can tap into our creativity, exploring new possibilities and finding novel solutions to complex problems. Also, disruption can bring setbacks and failures, while mindfulness fosters resilience by teaching us to acknowledge and accept our experiences without judgment.
It helps us develop a more balanced perspective, enabling us to bounce back from setbacks and learn from adversity. Practicing it also cultivates self-compassion, which is vital in maintaining emotional well-being during times of disruption.
The age of disruption can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Practices such as meditation and mindful movement have been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep quality and enhance overall well-being. By taking time to cultivate self-care and self-awareness, we can better navigate the challenges of disruptive times and maintain our overall health.
The author is one of 100 Most Influential Global Filipinas for her books and advocacy work. She was recognized as one of The Outstanding Women in the Nation's Service (TOWNS). As a social historian she has written 45 coffee table books in the last 25 years found in select libraries around the world.
