30 Sep How to Maintain Mindfulness Between Classes

There’s nothing quite like that feeling of walking out of a yoga class feeling that calm and present bliss. And it’s part of the reason so many of us come back again and again. But what can we do off the mat to continue that relaxed and present feeling? We believe mindfulness practices are the way to go. Here are just some of our favourites.

Pranayama

Pranayama is the control of the breath. This can mean a whole range of different things in yoga and some are more complicated than others. But it doesn’t have to be complicated at all. It’s been shown that five long deep and deliberate breaths can change how we’re feeling in a moment. Simply sitting still, eyes closed, deepening the breath and watching it flow in and out of the body can do the trick. This is great as a preventative measure; to simply keep you calm and present more often, but it also works well as a reactive measure. If you’re feeling anxious and stressed, slowing and watching the breath can help a lot.

Meditation

Meditation is simply the focus of our attention of one thing. Our breathing, how body, a mantra (word repeated again and again). This focus can slow the mind down and allow us to stay a little more present. This can be as simple as five minutes in the morning or before bed.

Reading

Ever been reading a book, look up, and realise it’s been hours? It’s amazing how mindful reading is. Your mind is occupied almost fully to follow along. It can be even better to read a book that might spark some inquiry or development at the same time. Perhaps you could try one of our favourites (link to book article).

Nature 

One of the best meditations is to get out into nature and just experience what is there to be seen. The wind across your skin, the smell of the ocean or the forest, the texture of the ground under your feet. Get out and explore nature, but be sure to see what’s in front of you and not just in your head.

Cooking

Cooking is a great way to get creative, use your hands, and also create something nourishing at the same time. We think it’s a great way to be mindful, immersed in the moment completely. It’s best if you don’t have to be anywhere or have dinner ready at any time. Let it take as long as it takes.