Mindfulness is the ability human’s have to be present without reaction. This basically means being aware of where we are and what is going on around us without being overly involved and overwhelmed. This ability is used to help treat stress, depression, anxiety, and even physical illnesses such as high blood pressure and chronic pain. However, in order to get the true benefits of mindfulness, one has to practice it on a regular basis. Here is a great mindfulness technique you can practice daily to help make the pressure of daily living easier.

Try this practice first thing when you wake up in the morning, before even checking your phone. 

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1. On waking, sit in your bed or a chair in a relaxed posture. Close your eyes and connect with the sensations of your seated body. Make sure your spine is straight, but not rigid.

2. Take three long, deep, nourishing breaths--breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. Then let your breath settle into its own rhythm, as you simply follow it in and out, noticing the rise and fall of your chest and belly as you breathe.

3. Ask yourself: “What is my intention for today?” Use these prompts to help answer that question, as you think about the people and activities you will face. Ask yourself:

How might I show up today to have the best impact?
What quality of mind do I want to strengthen and develop?
What do I need to take better care of myself?
During difficult moments, how might I be more compassionate to others and myself?
How might I feel more connected and fulfilled?

4. Set your intention for the day. For example, “Today, I will be kind to myself; be patient with others; give generously; stay grounded; persevere; have fun; eat well,” or anything else you feel is important.

5. Throughout the day, check in with yourself. Pause, take a breath, and revisit your intention. Notice, as you become more and more conscious of your intentions for each day, how the quality of your communications, relationships, and mood shifts.


Intention refers to the underlying motivation for everything we think, say, or do. Given that the unconscious brain is in charge of most of our decision making and behaviors, this practice can help you align your conscious thinking with your emotional drive. 
Setting an intention and keeping those primal motivations in mind helps strengthen the connection between your conscious and subconscious emotions. Doing so can change your day, making it more likely that your words, actions and responses— especially during moments of difficulty—will be more mindful and compassionate. Wake up with intention and mindfulness daily for a healthier, happier routine!