The new year is here! There’s no better time to introduce mindfulness into your life. So here are 5 ways you can start 2022 mindfully.
What is mindfulness and why does it matter?
Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware, which allows you to objectively appreciate the present or evaluate the situation at hand. It’s a great way of life that can help you solve problems, cope with anxiety or simply become a happier person. The best way to reap the benefits of mindfulness is by practicing it consistently — just a bit every day. And as 2022 gets kickstarted, there’s no better time to get your mindfulness routine up and running.
5 ways to start 2022 mindfully
#1 Set your mindfulness goals
The people who benefit the most from mindfulness are the ones who have a goal in mind. What are you looking to gain from mindfulness? Maybe you’re looking to be more in the moment, or maybe you’re looking for a healthy way to cope with negative emotions. Outline just one to two goals you’re aiming to achieve with mindfulness. This will go a long way in influencing the type of mindful exercises you choose and how you’ll engage with mindfulness in 2022.
#2 Create a mindful habit
Kickstart your mindful routine by starting with just one mindful habit. This could be having 5-minute morning meditations, weekly yoga classes, or a daily mindfulness bullet journal. Regardless of which activity you choose, make sure it aligns with your mindfulness goal and lifestyle preferences. For example, if you know you’re going to have a busy 2022, then opt for a more low commitment mindful habit — such as practicing deep breathing exercises. If you have more free time on your hands, you can try 30-minute meditation walks every day. The key to successfully cultivating a mindful habit in 2022 is choosing something you like and being consistent with it.
#3 Create a mindful environment
Help yourself become more mindful in 2022 by cultivating a space that encourages mindfulness. For example, if you practice daily meditation at home, pick a quiet corner of your home that is untouched by work and play. Make it your own space and create a peaceful environment. This not only reduces the distractions you face while practicing mindfulness but also helps you get in the zone when you’re ready to be mindful.
#4 Review your mindfulness goals
It isn’t just important to start 2022 mindfully — it’s also important for you to end 2022 mindfully. A lot of people struggle to keep up with their new year goals — being mindful included. As such, you should try to review your mindful goals and practices in the middle of the year. What’s working and what could be better? What’s preventing you from sticking to your habits or getting the most out of what you do? Double down on successful habits and cut back on things that don’t work. This will help you stay mindful all the way till the end of the year.
#5 Get the help of mindful tools
Reward yourself for starting 2022 mindfully by using mindful tools. These tools will make cultivating mindful habits way easier for you — plus, they make mindfulness fun too. A Timeqube, for example, is a mindful timer that changes color with the passing of time. It’s an unobtrusive mindfulness tool that you can use for a range of mindful habits — whether it’s timing your daily meditation or practicing the Pomodoro technique with your weekly journaling. Through these small tools, you’ll find joy in being mindful this year!
