In the past few decades, researchers found that society is experiencing an acceleration of the pace of life. This results in normalization of multitasking, an increase in working pace, and the number of tasks performed. We feel like we’re running out of time and we are limited to doing the things that we love to do most. [1] Consequently, this may lead to stress that can become a chronic condition if proper steps to manage it are not taken. Stress has become a common theme in our society and over the last few years, it has become a growing problem that calls for attention inside the workplace. Stress has become one of the factors that affect mental health issues and is considered a silent enemy since it can trigger emotional and physiological problems. [2]
Ultimately, there are several strategies you can implement in responding to stress, even the unhealthy ones. Action such as ignoring, denying, and distracting is an option, but it is not recommended as it will affect your mental state and happiness in the long run. Present-moment awareness—a key feature of mindfulness is a great solution as it may increase stress resilience and effective coping. Present moment awareness involves fully attending to current experiences rather than predicting future events or dwelling on the past. [1]
Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. It is a basic quality that every individual already possesses and all we need to do is to learn how to access it [3]. There are tons of simple activities you can start doing to nurture mindfulness living such as [4] [5] [6]:
Meditation
Taking 5 minutes of your break time to sit quietly and follow up your breathing can help you feel more conscious and connected for the whole day.
Slowing down
Enjoy every process, whether it’s writing a report, drinking a cup of tea, or cleaning out closets, Thoughtful attention in daily routines leads to a healthy focus and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.
Single-tasking
The opposite of multitasking. Give your focus to one task at a time to free up your mental space.
Spending Time in Nature
Take a small (or long) walk through a park! Go out on an adventure to the seas, mountains, forests! Being outdoor is good for your body, mind, and spirit, it keeps you being aware of the present.
Limiting Your Gadget Usages
Information can be easily accessed through your fingertips. This can lead to being overwhelmed in receiving information. Limit yourself from using your gadgets and keep them away from your bedtime.
Mindfulness improves physical health in many ways such as helping relieve stress, lowering blood pressure, improving sleep quality, and many more. Mindfulness can also contribute to being content in life. This is driven by awareness in enjoying every event that is occurring, being fully present in every activity, and increasing self-capacity in dealing with problems [7].
[1] https://www.mindful.org/how-to-manage-stress-with-mindfulness-and-meditation/
[2] Kristensen, M. L. (2018). Mindfulness and resonance in an era of acceleration: a critical inquiry. Journal of Management, Spirituality & Religion, 15(2), 178-195.
[3] https://www.mindful.org/what-is-mindfulness/
[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/mind-body/mindfulness-activities
[5] https://www.ellevatenetwork.com/articles/6170-be-more-mindful-7-tips-to-improve-your-awareness
[6] https://www.mindful.org/three-simple-mindfulness-practices-you-can-use-every-day/
[7] https://www.helpguide.org/harvard/benefits-of-mindfulness.htm
