Mindfulness for Students: library display

“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
(Viktor E. Frankl)

As we step into 2024, we would like to share a few new year’s resolutions with you that would help you focus on self-improvement and cultivate positive habits. Mindful exercises are ways of paying attention to a present moment using techniques like meditation, yoga and breathing. Read this blog if you want to start the year with an expanded mind and mental wellbeing.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness has its roots in Buddhist meditation. Meditation is a practice that aims to increase awareness of the mind and concentration.

“Mindfulness is about focusing on your breathing, being aware of what’s happening in the moment, accepting whatever you are experiencing and letting it go. You can be mindful anytime, anywhere, no matter what you are doing”. Student Health Guide (uni edition) 2023/24

Many studies have shown that mindfulness can be effective not only when sitting still or in silence but also when you incorporate the practice into things you do every day, like walking, eating, studying or while interacting with others.

As a student if you start to experience a stressful situation or are concerned about your workload, relationships, uncertainty about your future or getting stuck in a pattern of negative thinking, consciously practicing mindfulness can help break the cycle. Remember to get help from Student support services or get in touch with TalkCampus when you feel out of your comfort zone. Becoming mindful requires practice and dedication. Here are some tips to help you get started:

So, if you are feeling stressed you may find these mind apps useful:

Or you can try out your own a basic mindful exercise:

Sit on a straight-backed chair or cross-legged on the floor.
Focus on an aspect of your breathing, such as the sensations of air flowing into your nostrils and out of your mouth, or your belly rising and falling as you inhale and exhale.
Once you’ve narrowed your concentration in this way, begin to widen your focus. Become aware of sounds, sensations, and your ideas.
Embrace and consider each thought or sensation without judging it good or bad. If your mind starts to race, return your focus to your breathing. Then expand your awareness again

Check out books below for even more information or the Resource list here: https://rl.talis.com/3/rau/lists/A142102F-C6E7-9666-6047-E4C807DAC917.html?lang=en: