You’ll encounter many stressful situations at university, ranging from homesickness when you first arrive to coping with exams and assignments. Mindfulness can help you through all of it. The practice shifts your focus to the present by pushing you to notice what you’re thinking and feeling. It’s all about accepting and acknowledging without judgment. Mindfulness is ideal for helping you concentrate, increasing your productivity, and improving your general wellbeing. Here are several ways to practice mindfulness.
1. Meditate
It’s worth making time every day for meditation. A session only needs to take five minutes, but it’s worth spending longer meditating whenever you’re able. Make meditation part of your regular routine by doing it at the same time each day, such as right when you wake up or before you go to bed. You may also like to add a ritual to put you in the mood, such as by lighting a candle or smelling an essential oil.
There are various types of meditation you can do. You could simply sit still and focus on your breath, noticing how it flows in and out, or you could do a body scan meditation, where you pay attention to the sensations in each part of your body. If you’d like to try different meditations to keep things interesting, download an app of guided meditations.
2. Breathing Practice
Before a stressful activity (such as a quiz or important sports game) or something that requires focus (like a lecture or study session) take a moment to practice mindful breathing. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and clear your mind.
3. Work Without Distractions
When you’re doing homework or reading, strive to avoid all distractions. Determine how long you can maintain your focus and set a timer. After the timer goes off, allow yourself a short break.
4. Exercise with Mindfulness
You can even use mindfulness in your workouts. Pay attention to sensations, such as how your feet hit the ground or your muscles strain, the sounds around you, the breeze on your skin, and the regularity of your breath and heartbeat. If other thoughts crop up, just bring your mind back to these sensations. Mindfulness during workouts will improve your performance and help you gain more of the mental health benefits of exercise.
5. Be Mindful in Other Activities
Start incorporating mindfulness into other areas of your life, such as cooking, eating, and practicing hobbies. This will allow you to fully appreciate tasks, reduce the risk you make mistakes, and give you the same sense of calm you gain from practicing mindfulness at other times.
Have a refuge where you can relax and practice mindfulness by moving into off-campus housing. Ottawa students can find a home at THEO. You’ll be able to socialize with others in places like the movie lounge, rec room, and basketball court or be alone when you want time for yourself. Plus, we have a variety of floor plans to suit your preferences and budget. Apply now to secure the kind of apartment you want.