A Year of Mindfulness

*52 Weeks of FOCUS*

Thank you for visiting the Year of Mindfulness * 52 Weeks of FOCUS project page, my focus (no pun intended) for 2011 – in practice and writing. To learn about the specifics, view the original post and feel free to sign up anytime – its never too late to start a mindfulness practice.  As a yogi and yoga teacher, one of my main life practices is that of quieting my mind. Over the years, I’ve found that practice to be quite challenging, if not impossible at times.

Mindfulness can be described in numerous ways. I like Jon Kabat-Zinn’s definition, which is this . . .

Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.

Like most, I aspire to a spiritually fulfilled life – of greater purpose. It’s occurred to me that my thoughts determine much of this. When I view everything normally deemed “good or bad” as neutral, my own behavior and the outcome to that particular situation typically ends up fine. Alternatively, reaction TO the “good or bad” situation often leads to more reaction. Because “thoughts become things”, FOCUS throughout this project will direct our minds toward higher ideals. Thoughts will always take over and lead us to action unless we are mindful. Sometimes inaction and neutrality is best, if we slow down enough to look at it carefully. I am no expert at mindfulness, simply a girl dedicated to the practice. I fail a lot – hence the idea of dedicating an entire year to it. Giving FOCUS to my writing is another plus. Does practice make perfect? I’m just hopeful to see progress by 2012.

Should you decide to join, a new thought*concept*practice will be introduced each week. All will be drawn from different teachings ranging from general virtues, reflective practices, spiritual teachings, chakra connections/symbolism, yogic philosophy and meditative practices. The goal for me, is to focus my thoughts primarily around the topic for an entire week – noticing how things are showing up, connections and synchronicities. I plan to journal about them privately, but will share significant stories or break-throughs  during the year. I hope you will too! The 52 Weeks have been roughly sketched, so my own life does not dictate the direction as we move along. My promise is to post a thought*concept*practice each week. (Keep current by signing up to receive the posts via email in the right side bar on the Home page.) My hope is that the synergy of the group drives us throughout 2011 – sharing, connecting and supporting one another. View my tweets @namaste_heather and use #mindful52 anytime you tweet about it!

May 2011 be blessed – and mindful – beyond measure!