Mindfulness is not just an introspective activity, in fact relating mindfully becomes a gift to those around us in relating to them.
In a mindful state, we become less reactive, more present with people and more loving;
Some ways to be more present in your relationships:
- Take the time to connect with your partner: On waking, leaving the house, arriving home and before sleep, take the a few moments to really connect – to look in each others eyes, say hello and have a hug
- How are you really? – when someone asks you how you are change it from a unconscious “fine” to an opportunity to be mindful of how you really feel.
- When something someone says triggers you – your partner, your boss, your friend, whoever, try this. Take a few breaths, feel your feet on the ground and PAUSE. Feel any emotion in your body and use your breath to centre yourself. And then decide whether you are ready to give a measured response now or if it’s better to take some time out and come back to them later!
- Triggers and painful emotions can be a key to understanding ourselves better if we know how to process them effectively. To read more about this, click here.
Mindfulness is then a gift to others and can transform your relationships!
Ajay Hawkes
