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Introduction to Mindfulness - Dean Amory

Art and Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

Art and Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

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e little explicit care given <strong>to</strong> what is going on in the mind, and how<br />

the body and mind affect each other.<br />

Another form of Mindful Movement is Mindful Walking. This<br />

involves focusing on the sensations in your feet, or your legs, or<br />

maybe feeling your whole body moving. You can notice the tiny<br />

movements in the muscles in your feet as they adjust <strong>to</strong> keep you<br />

balanced. You slowly lift one foot off the floor, gently swing it<br />

forward, then lower it again, all in slow motion.<br />

Because we tend <strong>to</strong> live life so unconsciously, we take things like the<br />

ability <strong>to</strong> walk for granted. When you pay attention <strong>to</strong> it, you will<br />

appreciate that it is an amazing balancing act, given the small surface<br />

area of the feet. This is the essence of Mindful Movement: learning <strong>to</strong><br />

notice, appreciate, and enjoy the wonder of the body you have.<br />

Some fun ways that you can help your children <strong>to</strong> connect mindfully<br />

with their body include:<br />

- Practice Mindful Walking with your kids<br />

- S<strong>to</strong>p & ask them what they noticed in their body when they<br />

walked really slowly, & what feelings & thoughts they noticed<br />

- Then walk faster<br />

- S<strong>to</strong>p & ask them what they noticed in their body this time. Did<br />

they notice feelings & thoughts as they walked quickly? Were they<br />

different this time?<br />

- Do Mindful Walking again<br />

- Again ask what they noticed in their body when they walked<br />

really slowly, & what feelings & thoughts they noticed<br />

There is much <strong>to</strong> appreciate and enjoy in your body when you meet it<br />

mindfully.<br />

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