Mindfulness, Meditation and Breathing

Mindfulness, meditation and breathing
 
Introduction - Mindfulness is the practice of being present and self-aware without judgement of yourself or the situation; it is just about observing, learning and growing from the circumstances of life.  Meditation is a practice that helps build our capacity for mindfulness.  It involves sitting or lying down in a way that allows you to be present and to focus on aspects of the breath and body which as shown great restorative and healing results.  Breathing techniques are just that, various approaches to breathing that support meditation, relation and stress reduction.
 
Resources
 
Mindfulness Overview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p33800Pu2P8
 
9 Principles of mindfulness
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n7FOBFMvXg
 
Community
https://www.ummhealth.org/center-mindfulness
 
Basic practices
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/mindfulness-meditation-downloads/
 
Advanced practice - Body scan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WwdFAopxEg
 
Classes
https://www.masterclass.com/plans
 
Mindful meditation apps
https://jkzmeditations.com/
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-meditation-apps/
 
Breathing – there are several other techniques you can use in your practice to help reduce stress and anxiety.  Here are few that you may find useful. 
 
Techniques
4-7-8 Breathing - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-C_VNM1Vd0
Box breathing - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoQVgJx_QN4
Double breath - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSZKIupBUuc
 
Summary - Mindfulness, meditation and breathing are at the core of many therapies associated with reducing stress, anxiety and addiction recovery.  There is significant evidence that these practices help improve our ability to be present, respond not react, as well as increasing brain function and capacity.