Mindfulness Made Simple: How to Be More Present in Your Everyday Life
Jun 04, 2025
We’ve all heard the term mindfulness. But what exactly is mindfulness? And how do we practice mindfulness? And why is mindfulness a good practice to do regularly? And how does it help us live our Best Life?
Mindfulness is a great practice when our minds are racing – we might be thinking about what happened yesterday, what’s on our to-do list, and what might go wrong tomorrow. If we’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or like we’re just going through the motions – this is where the practice of mindfulness comes in. It's a powerful tool to help with peace of mind, and reducing stress, and I use it regularly.
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness means being fully present in the moment. It’s about noticing what’s happening right now — without judging it, overthinking it, or rushing through it. It’s taking the time to be fully present, right now.
Whether you’re drinking a cup of tea, walking in nature, or having a conversation, mindfulness helps you slow down, and truly experience life as it happens. Mindfulness also encompasses using this quiet time to go within, and listen to your own thoughts and feelings. This pause also helps us to relax the nervous system, and re-balance our mind, body, and soul.
Mindfulness allows us to become more aware of ourselves, as our thoughts and feelings help us explore why we feel the way we do – can we let some thoughts, emotions, and beliefs go? Are they serving us, or are they outdated, and not really helping us in our present circumstances?
So instead of rushing through life - without pausing and just ‘being’, taking the time go within and re-balance, and then wondering where it all went – we slow down, pause, take a moment, and be fully present in the world around and within us. I love to do this in nature, as I find it helps me relax. I notice the trees, the flowers, the butterflies, and the stillness around me. The quiet allows me to get out my normal routine, away from electronic devices, and really slow and connect with the world around me - as well as going within.
Why Is Mindfulness Good for You?
Practicing mindfulness has many benefits for your mind, body, and emotions. Some simple but powerful reasons to give it a try are mentioned below.
- Less stress - Mindfulness helps calm your nervous system, and reduces anxiety.
- Better focus - It trains your brain to pay attention.
- Improved sleep - When your mind isn’t racing, it’s easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- More joy - Being present can help you notice the little moments that make life beautiful.
- Healthier relationships - You can listen better, react more kindly, and feel more connected.
Easy Ways to Practice Mindfulness
You don’t need to sit on a mountain, or meditate for hours, to be mindful. There are some simple ways you can add mindfulness practices to your day.
- Mindful Breathing
Take a few deep breaths and feel the air moving in and out. Just focus on your breath for a minute or two.
Try this box breath: Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, and breathe out for 4. Repeat 3 times.
This breathing exercise can be very helpful in coming back to your body, to your breath, and slowing down, and focusing the mind. I tend to take a lot of deep breaths to help me calm my mind and my body - it's so ingrained, I do it automatically now.
- One-Thing-at-a-Time
Instead of multitasking, do one thing at a time — slowly, and with full attention. This could be brushing your teeth, eating lunch, or folding laundry. This can be quite calming.
- Body Scan
Close your eyes, and slowly move your attention through your body. Notice how each part feels, from your toes to your head. (I sometimes do this at night-time, before sleep.)
- Gratitude Moments
Pause, and notice something good: the sunshine, a smile, a warm drink.
Say ‘thank you’ in your mind.
My friend and I sometimes sent each other gratitude texts. For a while we were doing this daily, and it reminded us to look for the good things in our life - things that we were grateful for. It helped our focus turn from the negative to the positive, and to remember how blessed and lucky we are.
- Nature Walks
Go outside and really notice your surroundings. Feel your feet on the ground, listen to the birds, watch the clouds move. I am often entranced by the intricacy and beauty of leaves and flowers, or the elegant shape of some branches and trees.
How Mindfulness Helps You Live Your Best Life
Your Best Life isn’t just about ticking off goals, or staying busy. It’s about feeling calm, clear, and connected — to yourself, and to what really matters. That’s where mindfulness makes a big difference.
When you practice mindfulness, you start to notice what lights you up… and what drains you. You stop running on autopilot, and start making choices that feel right in your heart.
There are a number of ways that mindfulness can support you in living your Best Life.
š± You become more aware of what you need
Mindfulness helps you tune in to your body, emotions, and energy. You learn to notice when you need rest, movement, fun, or support.
š You stop people-pleasing, and start choosing
When you're mindful, you pause before saying ‘yes’ to things that don’t serve you. You begin to choose what aligns with your values, and your vision for your life, giving you time to focus on what matters to you.
šæ You feel more joy in simple things
Whether it’s the warmth of a morning cup of tea, or a kind word from a friend, mindfulness helps you appreciate the little moments that often get overlooked in the 'busy-ness' of life.
š§āļø You create space to grow
By slowing down, you make room for self-reflection, inspiration, and healing. This opens the door to personal growth, and positive change.
š You live with more purpose
Mindfulness connects you to the present moment — where all your power is. From here, you can take small steps toward your dreams, with confidence and clarity.
Living your Best Life isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present, kind to yourself, and making choices that support your highest good. Mindfulness helps you do exactly that.
Mindfulness Isn’t About Being Perfect
Some days you’ll forget. Some days your mind will wander. That’s okay! Mindfulness is a practice, not a performance. Every time you gently bring your mind back to the moment, you’re doing it right. And it gets easier with practice, too.
Final Thoughts
Mindfulness helps you reconnect — with yourself, with others, and with life. It brings calm, clarity, and a deeper sense of meaning to your days.
Our Walking into Wellness with Gratitude Guide is a great way to bring more mindfulness into your life - while also improving your mindset, getting out into the fresh air, and gaining a fresh perspective.
So start small. Be kind to yourself. And remember — the present moment is always here, waiting for you.
References/Further Reading
https://www.healthline.com/health/mindfulness-based-stress-reduction
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mindfulness-for-mental-wellbeing
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/exercise-combined-with-mindfulness-improves-mental-health
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-mindfulness
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-to-know-about-mindfulness-and-mental-health
https://www.verywellmind.com/understanding-mindfulness-based-relationship-enhancement-4685242
šæ Frequently Asked Questions About Mindfulness
1. What is mindfulness in simple words?
Mindfulness means paying full attention to the present moment. It's noticing your thoughts, feelings, body, and surroundings without judging them.
2. How do I start practicing mindfulness?
Start small. Take a few deep breaths, go for a slow walk, or eat a meal without distractions. Just focus on one thing at a time, and bring your attention back when your mind wanders.
3. Do I need to meditate to be mindful?
Nope! Meditation helps, but mindfulness can be practiced any time — while brushing your teeth, talking with a friend, or drinking tea.
4. How does mindfulness reduce stress?
Mindfulness can help calm your nervous system. It shifts your focus away from worries about the past or future, and brings you back to the here and now, where you can feel more grounded, and at ease.
5. Can mindfulness help with anxiety?
Yes. Many people find that being more present helps them feel less anxious and more in control. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a powerful tool that can really help over time.
6. How long does it take for mindfulness to work?
Some people feel more relaxed after just one session. But like anything, the more often you practice, the more benefits you’ll notice — like better sleep, more focus, and greater joy.
7. What are some easy mindfulness activities?
Try mindful breathing, a body scan, journaling, slow walking, or even colouring in. Anything that helps you focus on the moment counts!
8. Is mindfulness good for kids too?
Absolutely! Mindfulness can help children with focus, emotions, and sleep. There are even fun activities and games made just for kids.
9. What’s the difference between mindfulness and meditation?
Meditation is a set time to practice being still, and present. Mindfulness is something you can do anytime, anywhere. They often go hand-in-hand.
10. Can mindfulness help me live a better life?
Yes! Mindfulness helps you connect with what really matters, make kinder choices, and live with more peace, joy, and purpose.
Additional Resources
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š Disclaimer
This blog is for general information and inspiration only. It is not medical, psychological, or mental health advice. Always speak with a qualified health professional before making changes to your wellbeing practices. Mindfulness is a helpful tool, but it may not be right for everyone.
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