Chapter 1: My Path to Mindfulness

In my earlier days, I took great pride in my ability to multitask efficiently. Juggling cooking, cleaning, and caring for my children while managing to grab a bite to eat felt like an accomplishment. However, I often found myself stressed and unaware of the toll it took on me. That all changed when I enrolled in yoga classes, marking the beginning of my exploration into mindfulness.

While living in Germany with two young kids, I seldom had time for myself. My 'me' time usually consisted of collapsing on the couch after the children went to bed, exhausted from the day’s demands. When I learned about a nearby yoga class, I eagerly seized the chance to carve out some time for self-reflection and growth. This decision turned out to be a pivotal moment in my life, providing a much-needed escape.

Each class not only taught me yoga fundamentals but also offered profound insights from my teacher, who would share thought-provoking quotes at the end of our sessions. One memorable class prompted us to consider how we prepare and consume food. This revelation shifted my entire perspective, as I realized I had taken the experience of eating for granted.

I had become accustomed to gulping down meals while multitasking—working, reading, or scrolling through devices—often forgetting what I had just consumed. My yoga teacher inspired me to engage all my senses, appreciating not only the flavors but also the aromas, colors, and textures of my food. Although it was a gradual process, I began to foster more mindful eating habits.

This newfound awareness extended beyond meals; even mundane tasks like washing dishes transformed into calming rituals as I focused solely on the task at hand. This lesson has been invaluable, emphasizing how crucial it is to live in the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Over the past two years, embracing the moment has significantly grounded me amidst the chaos surrounding us. I’ve even stopped bringing my AirPods on walks, opting instead to immerse myself in the sounds of nature and my surroundings—simply being present.

Shifting from autopilot to a state of being has allowed me to reconnect with my emotions without judgment. The recent years have reiterated that we have little control over external circumstances. However, we can find solace in the knowledge that we are exactly where we need to be.

During one of the lockdowns in Canada, I was fortunate to participate in a mindfulness training course at the Centre of Mindfulness Studies in Toronto. This experience was transformative, introducing me to Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy. His definition of mindfulness as “awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally” resonated deeply with me. Inspired by his teachings, I explored nine mindful practices to incorporate into daily life.

Chapter 2: Mindfulness in Action

In the video "The Power Of Staying Present | Sammie Fries | TEDxYouth@AASSofia," the speaker delves into the significance of being present in our daily lives. By sharing personal stories and insights, Sammie encourages viewers to embrace mindfulness as a way to enhance overall well-being.

Gabby Bernstein's "The Power of Being Present and Living in the Moment" emphasizes how living in the now can lead to a more fulfilling life. Through practical advice and relatable anecdotes, Gabby inspires us to break free from distractions and fully immerse ourselves in our experiences.

One of my cherished mindfulness exercises is the STOP practice, which serves as a powerful reminder to focus on our inner state:

1. Stop.
2. Take a breath.
3. Observe what is happening at this moment.
4. Proceed mindfully.

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