As a wellness coach, I’m often asked about how to incorporate mindfulness into exercise routines. Many people think mindfulness and exercise are two completely separate things, but that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, incorporating mindfulness during exercise can be as simple as paying attention to things around you while you’re on a walk or doing any other form of physical activity.
One of the simplest ways to practice mindfulness during exercise is by paying attention to your senses. When you’re out for a walk, for example, take note of the texture of the concrete under your feet. Is it smooth or rough? Are there any cracks or patterns in the concrete? By focusing on the sensation in your feet, you can bring yourself into the present moment and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
Similarly, paying attention to the smells of the plants around you can be a great way to practice mindfulness during exercise. What do the flowers smell like? Can you smell the grass or the trees? Focusing on your sense of smell can help you feel more grounded and connected to the world around you.
Another way to practice mindfulness during exercise is by paying attention to the sounds you hear. What do you hear while you’re walking? Can you hear birds singing or cars driving by? By focusing on the sounds around you, you can bring yourself back to the present moment and reduce feelings of distraction or overwhelm.
Finally, pay attention to physical sensations, like the feeling of your toes on the concrete can also be a great way to practice mindfulness during exercise. How does the concrete feel against your skin? Is it cold or warm? By focusing on your body’s sensations, you can connect more deeply with yourself and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
Incorporating mindfulness into exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. By paying attention to your senses and staying present in the moment, you can make your workouts more enjoyable and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
So next time you’re out for a walk or doing any other form of physical activity, try paying attention to the texture of the concrete, the smells of the plants, the sounds around you, and the feeling of your toes on the ground. You might be surprised at how much more enjoyable and fulfilling your exercise routine becomes.
