This is actually a great point, “When I was a teenager, nobody mentioned the word mindfulness. Because we were mindful half of every… day”

We have become so unaccustomed to silence. To allow ourselves to be outside or just be with ourselves or even be fully present to another. We often attend to our smart phones to avoid whatever is actually happening inside and outside of us.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness, of course, is not just about avoiding screen time. It is about how we are being present to ourselves and how are mind and body are feeling. Whether it is to feel an emotion such as longing or gratitude, or to feel the cool of the air or warmth of the sun. Mindfulness is tending to what is happening.

Allowing ourselves to be present to our own experiences can be scary and possibly overwhelming. That is probably why we do go back to our smart phones or distract ourselves with something new. But, there can be growth through silent mindfulness and confronting our inner-lives too.

Of course, if it is too painful, I recommend doing that work with a Therapist, but a daily mindfulness practice such as meditation, journaling, or going for a walk can be helpful. Lastly, I want to say, it is okay to take a step away from work, to turn off the news, and to put your phone on silent mode.

My work

Yoojin Nam LMFT is the author of Thinking to Feel. He has been providing psychotherapy for 7 years and is licensed to practice in CA & TX.

Wondering if therapy might benefit you? E-mail [email protected] to schedule a free consultation.

Disclaimer: These posts are not a replacement for therapy. The information contained within is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be therapeutic advice.