The Gandhi Mindfulness Badge
“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”
– Thich Nhat Hanh
Do you have that one friend who makes you feel like they really “get you”? When you get together and talk, they are attentive and understanding. They make you feel like you are the only person in the room.
There is something special about being tuned into the world around you. Do you ever stop and pay attention to something that seems small, but makes you infinitely happy? Maybe it’s the familiar smell of your grandmother’s house, or the softness of your pillow after a long day, or the texture of your dog’s tongue when he gives you slobbery kisses.
The small moments in life are the best when we stop to take them in. But sometimes it can be difficult to remember to enjoy each second as it comes to us. It can be very easy to get caught up in something other than the present moment.
In this world where information is literally available at the touch of a button, we’ve got to make a conscious decision to stay in the moment, and to be present in our lives. In other words, we need to cultivate mindfulness. So how do we do that?
We start by figuring out what mindfulness is—what it looks like and feels like. Then we practice. And through practice, we begin to discover the benefits of living life in the present.
Mahatma Gandhi
Definitions of mindfulness differ, but most include an emphasis on self-regulation of attention and focus on the present moment. The practice of mindfulness includes taking an open, curious, non-judgmental stance towards one’s experiences.
During the practice you train your brain to continually return to the present moment, being aware of whatever thoughts, emotions, and sensations are arising. Ultimately, you are paying attention to what’s happening, while it’s happening and recognizing reality in the present moment, without trying to change anything.
You may decide, in the future, to take actions to influence future events, but in the present you just recognize and accept what is unfolding—acknowledging, rather than reacting.
Why Invest in This Badge?
Take a look at all the benefits of practicing mindfulness. It:
- Reduces depression, anxiety, stress, burnout etc.
- Is associated with more positive outcomes like happiness and life satisfaction, empathy, good relationships, etc.
- Increases life satisfaction, while reducing stress and exhaustion in school or the workplace.
- Increases the ability to sustain attention, focus selectively, and think more flexibly and efficiently.
- Improves mental clarity and focus.
- Reduces mind wandering.
- Increases time spent on creative thinking and problem solving.
- Assists in staying organized, managing time, and setting priorities.