Support Senior Mental Health with Mindfulness Practices
Living continuously in the moment requires a dedication to focus on what’s in front of you. This intent to always be present characterizes what it means to be mindful, but it’s often easier said than done. You're not alone if you’re struggling with mindfulness and implementing it in your life. People of all ages, especially seniors, can benefit from a more mindful mindset.
What is Mindfulness, and Why Is It Important?
Mindfulness can have various facets, depending on how you approach your circumstances. For some people, mindfulness means visually or audibly engaging with their surroundings. Others may focus on their actions from one moment to the next. However you choose to be mindful, being present can have far-reaching benefits that extend well beyond any passing moment.
Several studies have investigated how mindfulness can affect our physical and mental health. One study’s findings conclude that mindful “interventions,” or activities, can positively impact stress, depression, and anxiety, especially in older adults. While more research is still required to support these hypotheses, it’s reasonably acceptable that remaining mindful can help bring about a more positive outlook and quality of life.
Top 10 Mindfulness Practices For Seniors
If you’re seeking ways to be mindful, the list below can help jumpstart your creative thinking. Here are ten ways you can be mindful today:
- Participate in guided meditation: Even though meditation can require us to disconnect from our worries and embrace a sense of freedom, guided meditation can help nudge us in the right direction.
- Pick up a good book: Getting lost in a good book may cause you to look up and wonder where the time went, but spending time on your imagination can help you avoid the troubles and worries weighing you down.
- Exercise regularly: Moving our bodies can force us to focus on what’s happening to ensure we complete the exercise correctly. Strengthening your muscles can also help you focus on your body and remain present.
- Practice self-compassion: Self-talk goes a long way in encouraging a mindful mental setting. Take small moments to express compassion toward yourself.
- Implement the STOP method: With this method, stop for a moment and take a breath. Observe your physical and emotional state. Proceed after deciding how to move forward with your day.
- Make time for what you enjoy most: Mindfulness practices include enjoying what makes you happy. Feel the rush of a new project, the satisfaction of completing one, or the challenges you overcome in the middle.
- Stay curious: Allowing your curiosity to get the better of you may make you feel impulsive, but it can often encourage mindfulness in the moment.
- Schedule five minutes of joy: Mornings are an excellent time to lay in bed and spend five minutes thinking about what makes you happy. What will you look forward to today?
- Express your creativity: We all express our creativity in different ways, from artistic movements such as dance and song to writing or taking pictures. Channel your creative spirit to stay centered.
- Connect with nature: Nature provides many sounds, sights, and smells to discover. Spend time walking around natural landscapes near you to (re)connect with nature.
Incorporate these mindfulness practices into your daily routine to see how they can positively affect your mood, perspective, and outlook. Share your experiences with others to encourage them to be mindful.
Mindful Care with Visiting Angels of Pikesville/Owings Mills
Sometimes, we can struggle to be mindful or maintain mindfulness. If you or an aging loved one can benefit from mindfulness but need assistance, contact us for a free consultation. Visiting Angels of Pikesville/Owings Mills crafts customized care plans catering to your needs and goals. If living a mindful life safely in your home is your goal, we can help.