Remember the simple things that give you joy – me aro tonu ki ngā mea māmā noa i ngākau harikoa ai koe.
Paying more attention to the present moment, to our thoughts and feelings and to the world around us boosts our wellbeing.
Being more aware of the present moment, the world around you and your own feelings and thoughts, can help you to positively change how you're feeling about life.
Research suggests that savouring our experiences can help us recognise and restore our life priorities. Being aware of what's going on in the moment can enhance our sense of wellbeing
Self-awareness allows us to make choices based on our values and motivations.
Take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you. Here are a few ideas:
👁 Get a plant for your workspace
👁 Have a ‘clear the clutter’ day
👁 Learn useful techniques for becoming more aware of life as it is happening. Stop for a while; take 10 mindful breaths in and out, calming the body and mind, then simply rest where you are noticing everything that is going on around you. This practice incorporates four keys aspects of mindfulness training:
Stopping – Calming – Resting – Noticing. Together, these four steps are innately healing. Use an everyday environmental cue (the phone ringing, email alert etc) as a reminder to pause and breathe for three breath cycles, and take notice of the world around you.
👁 Climb your maunga, swim in your awa or moana and kōrero karakia with tangaroa.
👁 Spend time gardening or create a green space in your home or office where you could grow a few small plants, such as herbs, on a windowsill.
👁 At the end of the day ask friends, family or colleagues what the best thing was about their day and listen with interest when they respond.
👁 Have a mirimiri/massage to sooth and relax your body.
👁 Take the opportunity to sit quietly in a busy place like an airport or a mall and notice the interactions between people.
👁 Try to get out of your work environment during breaks. Go for a walk into a nearby park, being mindful of your breathing, your footsteps and the environment around you.
