Mindfulness

• Mindfulness is a simple meditation technique to help manage your mental well-being
• Mindfulness can be done anywhere, and you only need a few minutes
• Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress and anxiety and help you feel happier

Mindfulness is a very simple form of meditation. Conditions like pulmonary fibrosis can cause added worry and anxiety about the future. Many people say that they become very stressed and struggle to focus on the important things in life.

Mindfulness can help to relieve some of their worries, so that they can focus on looking after themselves and spending quality time with their loved ones.

Common myths about mindfulness

Some people are wary when they hear “meditation.” However, it may be helpful to dispel some common myths:

• Meditation and mindfulness are not a religion. Mindfulness is simply a method of mental training
• You don’t have to sit cross-legged on the floor. You can practice mindfulness in any environment where you are most comfortable
• Meditation and mindfulness are not hard to do. They are not about “success” or “failure”
• Performing mindfulness does not take a lot of time. Even a short session can help to reduce your fears and allow your mind to focus

What are some of the benefits of practicing mindfulness?

Mindfulness can help you to keep a positive attitude and manage any difficult emotions when you experience them.

Some of the benefits of mindfulness include:

• Improved happiness and well-being
• Reduced stress, anxiety and irritability
• Improved memory, creativity and reaction times

How do I perform mindfulness?

There are many ways of performing mindfulness. Some people like to take part in guided mindfulness, where a teacher (or a recorded voice) will talk you through a mindfulness session. Most sessions focus on clearing your mind and allowing you to think clearly. They can last anywhere from five minutes to an hour.

One very simple example of a mindfulness session would be:

1. Sit down in a comfortable place, such as a chair or bed
2. Close your eyes and focus on the feelings in your body
3. Breathe slowly. Focus on your breath and feel it as it enters and leaves your body
4. Notice when your mind wanders from your breath. When it does, slowly try to focus back onto your breath
5. When you feel ready for the end of the session, open your eyes and re-adjust to your surroundings

Mindfulness is about observation without criticism; being compassionate with yourself when unhappiness or stress are bothering you. Mindfulness allows you to catch negative thought patterns before they tip you into a downward spiral. It begins the process of putting you back in control of your life.

Many different organizations will offer mindfulness services, including hospitals, charities and private classes.

To find out more about services available locally, speak to your healthcare team. Many private classes will also be advertised online.