Be Empowered and Stay Well by Having a Renewed Mindset

Definition: The state of being self-aware and focusing on the present without judgment or evaluation.

Mindfulness can be used to calm the mind, enrich our lives, and even improve our health.

Mindfulness can be explored in a multitude of ways, and on many platforms nowadays. In this post, we will discuss two different ideas: sitting silently in a quiet environment (traditional meditation), and meditating on the word of God. Both can be effective, but are definitely two different things.

With the practice of mindfulness, we focus on redirecting our attention from the past or future and concentrate fully and completely on the present. By doing this, we see exactly what is in front of us at that particular moment. At the same time, when we delay and detach judgment and prejudice, we remove unproductive, negative thoughts.

This systematic, daily active practice of mindfulness has the power to strengthen our ability to both regulate, and stay in control of, our emotions. In doing so, this can not only serve as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but also as a proven way to prevent relapses in people with mental health disorders or even addictions.

Additionally, the regular practice of mindfulness allows us to separate ourselves and look at ourselves as a whole, realizing that the brain is a series of many mind-body connections so that we can use our minds to change the perceptions of the challenges we face.

When we talk about meditating on the word of God, it is not to say repeating a specific Scripture over and over again, although it can be that too with mindful contemplation. Rather, it is a means of daily strength, teaching, and encouragement that can enrich our faith and give us a sense of hope as well as peace. When we go to God’s word daily, we are strengthened, equipped, and empowered.

Photo credit: Columbia Gorge, Oregon, United States