Slowing Down as Part of the Healing Process

 

There is lots to say about the idea of slowing down and "mindfullness" as a path to healing and happiness. Below has been taken from http://www.stressmindfulness.com

 

• Do less. It is difficult to slow down when you have lots of things to do. Instead, make an effort to do less. Focus on the really important matters, those who needs to get done as soon as possible then you can forego the rest to another day. Put space in between tasks so you can work at a more leisurely pace.
• Be present. You don't just slow down. You need to be aware of what you're doing every moment. When you find yourself thinking about something that had happened in the past, something that needs to be done, or something that you need to do, stop and slowly go back to your present situation. Focus on what is happening now - your actions, environment and your surroundings. This may require practice but is very important.
• Disconnect. Do not connect always. If you carry a Blackberry or iPhone or other mobile device, turn it off for the meantime. Better yet, leave it when you are not expecting an important call or message. If you are always in front of a computer, shut it down once in a while and give time for other things. Being connected always means we're prone to disruptions, constantly stressed and always being in control by others. It's difficult to slow down when you are always expecting work or other things.
• Focus on People. Too often we spend time with family, friends, relatives and other people without really being with them because we are too preoccupied with the technology. We're with them but our mind is on something else thinking about the things that need to be done. We are listening to them but our mind can't understand anything. Sometimes, we need to shut off many things in order to fully enjoy what is happening at the moment. We are truly connected with other people if we are with them in mind and in heart.
• Appreciate Nature. Most of us are confined in our house, office and cars that we don't have time to get out and enjoy. Sometimes, even if we are out, we are too busy with our gadgets that we don't realize what is already happening in our environment. We should take time to go out, observe nature, breath and relax.
•  Eat Slow. Instead of always eating in a hurry or cramming to eat foods in front of us, we should try to eat slowly to enjoy the food that we eat and prevent over eating or dissatisfaction with the food. Appreciate the food - its texture, flavor and spices.
• Drive Slower. Driving fast is pretty a way of life for almost everyone who are always in a hurry to go to work every day. Appreciate the surroundings and you'll get to your destination safely.
• Find pleasure in everything. Make sure to enjoy everything that you do, even if it is just a household chore. (Don't feel bad if none of this comes natural. It takes practice and time. I have along way to go on most of this! ) 

 

There is a type of treatment that is called "mindfullness" that has been proven to lower symptoms of PTSD. The whole concept of mindfullness is based on the need to slow down and be in the present. It is about simply being in the hear and now -paying attention to the details around you. We will talk more about Mindlfullness in future posts. Has anyone used mindfullness in their healing? Please share how it has helped.