As documented in Wikipedia "Mindfulness describes a psychological quality which involves bringing one’s complete attention to the present experience on a moment-to-moment basis".
This is all fine and dandy if we give up our worldly belongings and practice meditation like a ancient Buddhist Monk. However for all those of us who don't opt for this path we have bills to pay, children to school and work that has to be done to achieve these things. All of this stuff gets in the way, exhausts us and completely kills most of our time.... however, you don't have to let it be that way.
Anyone can find a little bit of inner peace even in this environment.
Live in the moment
Mindfulness is a meditation method that helps the practitioner to be, or live in, "the moment". Mindfulness exercises provide a series of exercises that help us to get into the "moment". The concept here is that you deeply concentrate on only one thing at a time. Using this method you are clearing your thoughts, and truly being in the moment. With practice you will also identify little things which you might not have realised about the "thing" you are focusing on. Here is a simple and easy example.
An easy mindfulness exercise
Imagine I've got a pencil, something you might find at the office. Pick up the pencil and stare at it. Notice it's feel in your hands, the paint, the texture. Notice it actually has bumps on the surface, notice the fact that pencil lead blends into the wood. Become totally engrossed in focusing on that pencil for a minute. For many this will be hard. Hard to find the time, hard to concentrate on the object and hard to limit distractions. And that's really the point. It's finding a way to cut through all those distractions while keeping your focus. Like anything the first few times will be hard.
Now I'm not recommending you just start doing this in the office or in a public place, people observing you might think you've gone completely mad. However the technique can be done any where any time.
The benefits of mindfulness exercises
For those that regularly practice mindfulness exercises there are short term and long term benefits. In the short term you'll experience a form of mental relaxation, giving your brain a short rest. In the long term with regular practice you'll find a small amount of inner peace.
Tips on finding the time
Obviously the main issue with all of this is finding the time. These exercises which were put together by Buddhist monks are tricky for us earthy types to adopt.However if you look hard enough it can be done. I usually find a few mins a day to totally concentrate on something, like writing, walking outside or listening to some quiet music. Whatever you do give it your complete attention, limit distractions and you'll find little things you never noticed.
Harness the power of mindfulness exercises.
Every time you experience 100 % focus, you're in the moment, you're at peace. Things become clearer, you will be relaxed and willing to let little troubles wash away. Visit mymindfulnessexercises.com and see how simply 1 minute can change the way you live.