5 Ways to Practice Mindfulness with Backcountry

Last year I started hearing this term a lot...Mindfulness. Being present, in the moment, connected to oneself. I did not think much of it at the time. Having a busy travel schedule and social events to attend. Then this year came along and I had more time to think about what being mindful actually meant and the benefits of such practices. It turns out that a slower-paced life, instead of a constantly busy one, was just what I needed to truly understand the importance of being present. I started changing a few lifestyle habits of mine and my thoughts started to unravel and relax.

This transformation into mindfulness started to open my eyes to a world so different and better for my health than the one I was living in. Simple lifestyle changes helped me unravel the mystery of what it meant to be mindful and that is what I wanted to share with you all today. 5 ways to practice being mindful.

Take a Walk

My evening walks with Lady are my favorite way to unwind after a long workday. Sitting at a desk for hours keeps your body stagnant and stiff. Getting your body moving in fresh air is so great for clearing the mind. Pick new places to explore in your neighborhood. Even areas that are a short drive away. Experience new neighborhoods, parks, dirt trails, boardwalks. All these places are great for getting your mind to think about things other than work.

2. Be Present

I am guilty of living in dreamland and always thinking about the “what ifs.” It takes practice, but when I focus on being present in what is happening to me at that present moment, I find I enjoy myself more. This is also important to not miss the little things that happen along the way and should be appreciated.

3. Practice Yoga

Yoga is something I have been getting into more and more. So many of my friends swear by it, and although it has at times the poses, breathing, and getting my mind to concentrate have struggled for me, I’ve kept at it and seen great improvement! I like to practice a few of my favorite yoga exercises in new places while I am enjoying the view. I recently invested in a few new yoga sets from Backcountry. Their sets are both stylish and functional giving me a reason to get dressed up and make use of them. I shared more of my favorite sets below.

4. Breath Deeply

How many of us forget to take in a deep breath? This simple exercise immediately helps relieve tension and relaxes the muscles. And the beauty of it is that you can do it anywhere! In a long car ride, at work, on a walk. It’s simple and can be done any day, anywhere.

5. Stretch

Another simple exercise for mindfulness is to stretch. And really focus on breathing deeply and pushing through the stretch. Stretching helps me be more in tune with my body. Realize areas that may need more love attention than others. Areas that are holding a lot of stress and could use some help relaxing. Next time you are on a walk and stop to take a break, or just woke up and are waiting for your coffee to brew, just try a couple of simple stretches and focus on going deeper into the stretch.