Mindfulness for Your Health: The Benefits of Living Moment by Moment

Excerpted from NIH News in Health, June 2021.

Paying attention to what’s going on right this second can be hard. We often spend more time thinking about what’s coming up in the future. Or dwelling on things in the past we can’t change. We can miss out on experiencing the present. It’s possible to train yourself to focus on the present moment. You become aware of what’s going on inside and around you—your thoughts, feelings, sensations, and environment. You observe these moments without judgment. This is called mindfulness. Mindfulness programs are now commonly found in schools, workplaces, and hospitals.

Health Benefits of Mindfulness. Studies suggest that focusing on the present can have a positive impact on health and well-being. Mindfulness-based treatments have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. There’s also evidence that mindfulness can lower blood pressure and improve sleep. It may even help people cope with pain. “For many chronic illnesses, mindfulness meditation seems to improve quality of life and reduce mental health symptoms,” says Dr. Zev Schuman-Olivier of Harvard University. One of the first mindfulness-based therapies was used for depression. Many studies have shown that it can be effective for some people. Mindfulness helps you develop the ability to stay grounded in the present, explains Dr. Sona Dimidjian of the University of Colorado Boulder.

Learning To Be Mindful. Mental training can take time and dedication. Aim for a few minutes of mindfulness each day to start. A body scan meditation can be a good way to connect with your body. It helps make you aware of how your body feels as you mentally scan from head to toe. Start in a comfortable position with your eyes closed. Take several deep breaths. Then, notice your feet. How do they feel? Let your scan travel up your body—legs, stomach, arms, hands, neck, and finally, head. Notice any sensations or discomfort. Try not to change or judge these feelings—you’re simply checking in. Doing body scans on a regular basis can help increase mindfulness.