“Mindfulness – it isn’t a trick or a gimmick. It’s being present in the moment.” Author Will Schawlbe couldn’t have put it any better. If we are not mindful, we are not really present. Without pausing to admire the beauty of the world we live in and acknowledge the little things, we cannot really appreciate and understand life. Thus, taking time out of our busy routines is crucial to finding happiness and being truly content. The best part? It’s really quite simple to achieve. I’ve put together a few basic ways to broaden, relax and rejuvenate the mind on a daily basis. They’ll have you mastering mindfulness before you know it.

Meditate, Deliberate

You’ve got to meditate. I recommend meditating for at least fifteen minutes a day, preferably more like half an hour. I make sure I meditate every morning before I begin my day, and cannot stress enough how much it does. Meditation connects your soul, mind and body. You will soothe and refresh your very being, opening yourself to new possibilities. Similarly, it is important to spend some time thinking each day. With meditation, all thoughts stop. Allowing time to also contemplate our position on Earth, our purpose and our direction is an equally valuable activity. Recognise where you are right now, and appreciate it. Gratitude and acknowledgement are key components of a life well lived.

Technology Holiday

Yes, that’s right. Getting a break from our (many) digital devices is crucial to reviving the mind. We are surrounded by phones, tablets and computers throughout most of the day. Because we constantly carry out digital companions, we constantly use them. Think about it – before the smart phone came along, coffee with friends would mean an hour or two of straight talking and bonding. Now, it probably wouldn’t be more than ten minutes before someone reaches for their phone – for whatever reason. We are not only reliant on our phones and tablets, but in many ways addicted to them. We can’t seem to function without them. If you get lost, you no longer need to use initiative or communicate with strangers to ask for help – you can Google map it on your smart phone. If you want to check your bank balance, you don’t have to stroll down the street to an ATM – you can do it on your smart phone. Getting away from technology forces you to experience life properly. Allocate two hours a day (at least) where you don’t have any electronics with you. Go for a walk on the beach, do yoga, read a book – anything. Live in the real world, not behind your device.

Explore, a Little

“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself” – Henry Miller. Lastly, an effective way to revive the mind is to spend time outdoors. Embrace nature. Go adventuring, and explore somewhere new. Take a hike in your nearest regional park (New Zealand has tons of them!), go for a bike ride or find a new beach. Realising how diverse and beautiful our natural world is truly opens your mind. You realise there is more to life than a daily routine, and many, many more places to explore.