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January 2025 Get Reconnected Newsletter – Insights on Mindfulness

We’ve all heard the term “mindfulness,” and it can feel like just another buzzword.

But mindfulness is much more than that. It’s a practice that everyone can benefit from, no matter your age or background.

In a nutshell, mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment with acceptance and without judgment.

The word mindfulness originates from the Sanskrit word smriti, which means to remember. Mindfulness can be thought of as remembering to come back to the present moment. It’s about being fully aware of what you’re doing, feeling, or thinking, without letting your mind wander into negative spirals or judgment.

For example, if you catch yourself thinking about something stressful or upsetting, mindfulness allows you to pause and say, I notice that my mind is going there. This moment of awareness gives you the opportunity to redirect your focus to the here and now.

Benefits of Mindfulness

Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t just about slowing down, it’s about changing how you experience life. We’ve written a blog that touches on all the incredible benefits it offers. From reducing anxiety and depression to boosting your immune system and protecting your brain from stress and aging, mindfulness can truly change your life.

It can help you feel calmer, improve focus, and even improve your sleep by quieting that mental chatter at night. If you’re curious about how this simple practice can make such a big difference, check out our blog on the Benefits of Mindfulness to learn more!

Why Is This Important?

Life moves fast, and we often get stuck in autopilot, constantly reacting to stress and distractions without a moment to breathe. Mindfulness is important because it offers a way to step out of this cycle.

Read the Article Here.

New Research Shows Mindfulness Can Reduce Impulsivity

New Research Shows Mindfulness Can Reduce Impulsivity

Have you ever reacted in the heat of the moment and instantly wished you could take it back? Maybe you said something hurtful or made a rash decision. Research shows that mindfulness can help you slow down and think before you act, giving you the chance to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively. It’s not about being perfect or always calm but about creating a little space that allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Read the Article Here.

Why Is This Important?

We live in a fast-paced world where stress and quick reactions are the norm. Without being mindful, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from how we truly want to respond. Mindfulness helps you step off autopilot. 

Read the Article Here.

 

How to Practice Mindfulness Meditation

How to Practice Mindfulness Meditation

The truth is, we all practice mindfulness in different ways, even if we don’t realize it. Think about when you’re cooking a meal and completely focused on chopping the vegetables just right, or when you’re fixing something around the house and paying attention to every detail. Maybe you’ve been absorbed in a great book, losing track of time and feeling fully immersed in the story. This is all informal mindfulness—those everyday activities where we naturally focus on the present moment without forcing it.

For the next month, set an intention to do something more mindfully. For example, drink your morning coffee more mindfully. Notice how hot the cup feels in your hands, the smell of the coffee, the taste, how it feels as you drink it, and when your mind drifts to something else. Catching yourself and gently bringing your focus back is part of the practice. 

Another way to build mindfulness is through formal practice. Here’s a quick way to start: 5-minute guided mindfulness meditation

Find a quiet spot, get comfortable, and give yourself these few minutes to reconnect with the present.

Watch the 5 Minute Mindfulness Meditation

 

 

 

 

Picture of Delia Petrescu

Delia Petrescu

Founder & Director
BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (RP)

Delia Petrescu, MA, RP is a Toronto-based psychotherapist, psychometrist, and the founder of Get Reconnected Psychotherapy and Counselling Services. She provides virtual therapy sessions Ontario-wide. Delia has experience working with adults struggling with adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, and trauma. She specializes in integrative and holistic care for those coping with life crises such as fertility concerns. Read more about Delia

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