A Guide to Mindfulness When Times are Tough

As our daily lives become affected by outside factors and things are constantly changing around us, it can be hard to stay grounded. Acknowledgement in these times requires you to be a little softer with yourself, a little warmer with others, and a little more vigilant of your state of mind. When we have less external structures holding us up, we have to utilize our own inner strength to educe the values that we hold closest to our hearts. The strongest forces we have are our beating hearts, the consistency of our breath, and the power of our will. 

Mindfulness is a practice of being in the present. It teaches us that the present is always neutral and in each present moment you are safe and you have everything you need. When we are able to connect with that peace, we can move on with our days with more certainty and clarity of mind. 

The practice of mindfulness is also a way of developing a personal relationship with our emotions and our inner selves. We cannot expect to stay in the present at every given moment -- our minds wander, concerns may flow in, and our moods fluctuate. Just as it is the nature of the mind to create thoughts and feelings that come and go as they please, our emotions are also passing too. Every feeling is temporary, good or bad, it too will pass. However, if we are able to develop a strong relationship with our inner self, we will be able to stay strong and grounded with each moment no matter the circumstances. 

After understanding how our emotions ebb and flow with our thoughts and feelings and how they are connected to our minds and bodies, we can start to ground ourselves with the inner silence that exists underneath all those layers. That silence is where we can begin to create our personal sanctuary. Once we begin that journey, we can use that knowledge to reflect on what matters most to us, share it with others, and create community in new ways. As a result, we become kinder and more empathetic. This leads to stronger connections and deeper relationships, both internally and externally. Mindfulness can then become your guide to navigating daily life and with every breath is a new journey.

Helpful Tips and Practices:


- Stay safe, healthy, and at home! It is the most important thing we can all do to get through this as quickly as we can.


- Keep a positive attitude. This situation is only temporary and it too will pass.

- Spread & Share mindfulness with others - We can extend our own sanctuary to help others find theirs.

- Limit your intake of social media and the news. It's important to catch yourself scrolling mindlessly and instead redirect that energy to connecting with friends or doing something creative.

- Take breaks frequently to stretch, breathe, and meditate.

- If you can, go for a walk outside and appreciate the nature around you. See what new flowers are blooming, notice the colors, and take a moment to listen to the sounds of spring. 

- Make time to unwind for your mental health. Journaling is a great way to stretch the mind and release your thoughts.

- Connect with your friends and check in with loved ones often. This will help mediate feelings all around and provide a community of comfort.

- This a wonderful opportunity to create community in new ways! Connection through kindness and empathy, even with the smallest acts can make a big impact. 

- Make a list of the positive things in your life. Write a thank you note to people and things you are grateful for.

- Be gentle with yourself. Take a deep breath anytime you feel overwhelmed.