With the new year fully underway and our return to daily routines setting in, it can often feel as though life is becoming a little overwhelming. The post Christmas relaxation mode has worn off and getting up to a dark morning becomes less appealing by the day, especially when those frosty January temperatures are making themselves known. A way to counter this is to practice mindfulness. Many of us start to wonder how I can be more mindful and what I need to do to achieve this. Not to worry as at Scentered, we are here to give you the rundown on how to have a more positive outlook on 2022 as well as great ways to practice mindfulness! 

What Is Mindfulness?

The practice of being mindful is something that as a society we have begun to be more and more open about. The year of 2020 saw us having more time than usual to spend working on ourselves, which included how we take care of our mental state. Since then, being mindful has almost become second nature to us. 

But what exactly does it mean to practice mindfulness? Essentially it's harnessing our natural ability, as humans, to be completely present in our thoughts, feelings and emotions in a relaxed and safe environment. For many of us, that is our home, making this an easily incorporated and healthy habit at no expense. Mindfulness is ideal for times where we need a sense of clarity and calm or even just to check in with ourselves and to start to become more mindful of not only us but others too. Very much centred around your personal needs at that moment, mindfulness looks completely different to everyone, but what we can all agree on is that we are better for it. 

How Do I Practice Mindfulness?

We are going to run you through some simple but effective ways in which you can practice the art of mindfulness. It’s a well known way to increase not only your mental wellbeing but your positive attitudes towards life, Intention Setting

The practice of setting out clear intentions is a well-known technique in the mindfulness community and is one that can be done at any point during the day. Great for those of us with a busy schedule and need something slightly less time consuming but equally beneficial. 

This requires you to take time and visualise what you want to achieve through setting some intentions. Atmosphere plays a huge part in getting both the mind and body in a state of relaxation. A great way to achieve a calm surrounding is through scent. Luckily here at Scentered we have the perfect solution with our I Want To Be HAPPY Set ,you can claim that happy energy with the mint and citrus candle and perfect partner fragrance balm. Simply place the candle in a spot that feels right for you and light, indulge in the therapeutic routine of setting your intentions, paired with a scent. The  HAPPY Wellbeing Ritual Aromatherapy Balm is a great way to enhance your experience. We recommend applying it directly to the wrist, neck and temples. Inhale deeply to fully immerse yourself in the scent, to reflect and recharge with a positive mindful aurora.

 Now that your atmosphere is set, these questions should give you an idea of what to do when setting intention for positive mindfulness. How might I show up today to have the best impact? How might I feel more connected and fulfilled? What do I need to do to take better care of myself?

Walking for The mind 

There are many studies that suggest taking a brisk walk in the fresh open air is highly effective in improving one's mental health. Although this cold weather may not seem too pleasant , the cooler temperatures are perfect when it comes to bringing clarity and getting your body moving. Why not try taking just 20 minutes to unwind and take in some of nature’s healing properties. We suggest trying to focus on what you can see, hear, smell to give you and your thoughts a break. 

Journaling affirmations 

This is a great idea for those of you that want to focus on being present and reflecting in the moment. There are many studies that have linked journaling to an increase in better mental wellbeing and mindfulness. This practice of journaling things like affirmations also goes hand-in-hand with the idea of setting intentions, especially during the first month of a new year. Whichever way you choose to become more mindful this year make sure you do it at your own pace and for your needs. Now is as good a time as any to really reflect on being thankful, being present and all together maintaining a positive outlook on the year ahead.