Blog: My Path to the True Me
Mindfulness as the key to full life
Written by: Dušan Waldhütter
In a world that seems to be becoming increasingly unhinged and in which we frequently live superficially, the conscious choice of mindfulness is becoming an important tool that allows me my path to slow down and listen to myself. I’m glad to realise that this isn’t just a technique or a trend, but my new way of life. I wish to live a life that is conscious, present and purposeful. I allow myself to prioritise the foregoing, and you know what? I’m really enjoying it. Mindfulness teaches me my path and how to embrace every moment with no judgment or pretense. It’s teaching me to live to the fullest.
It starts with the first thoughts at the dawning of a new day. As soon as I become aware of them, I start breathing consciously. By focusing on breathing, I get rid of heavy thoughts which are so likely to sneak into my brain in the morning when my eyes are still closed. When I later prepare my tea, I no longer drink it in such a way that I’m not aware of drinking it and what it tasted like, but I make a whole ritual out of preparing it. Once I hold the tea cup, I feel its warmth in my hands. I breathe in its aroma and I’m mindful of how every sip calms me down. During my almost every day 5-kilometre hike through the settlement of Polena, I pay attention to the sound of the wind, the smell of grass, the play of light in the treetops, the cawing of crows. I used to constantly think about work during my walk. But not anymore. What surrounds me in a given moment isn’t just the images I see. These are experiences I feel with all my senses.
Mindfulness invites you to become an explorer of your inner world. In the moments of silence, it’s possible to observe your thoughts, emotions and reactions without judging, denying or pushing them away. When I’m open towards myself and the world, I feel increasingly more connected with my essence, which leads to deep satisfaction.
The first step to greater mindfulness is correct breathing. When I consciously breathe in and out, I don’t only fill my body up with oxygen, I also improve concentration and calm my mind, which I was barely able to do in the past despite my desire and ever-growing need. A deep breath in is like a positive energy injection, while a long breath out releases tension. Breathing is my strong ally, always there to return me to balance. I like the idea which says that control over one’s own life starts with having control over one’s own breathing.
The next step which I consciously practice is observation. Mindfulness invites me to look at the world with new eyes: to notice a small ant on the threshold, feel the warmth of the sun’s rays on my skin or detect subtle changes in my mood. Every detail becomes an opportunity for deeper connection between myself and my environment. I didn’t used to notice this, but now I’m learning that the slightest thing can trigger the feeling and expression of gratitude – something I didn’t appreciate enough in the past.
My third exercise to enhance my complete presence is anticipation. Mindfulness teaches me to not deal with fears and worries, but instead observe the developments and my reactions with curiosity and prepare for conscious action. I see and feel that my inner strength and stability are thus increasing.
MY PATH TO GREATER MINDFULNESS
I notice that I’m more frequently free of constant haste and cherish moments more. Decisions are being made more thoughtfully, relationships are becoming deeper and communication calmer, structured and with fewer conflicts. The path I travel has no final destination. I consider the lesson in mindfulness to be a journey on which I venture every day anew.
While talking about a journey, I recently enjoyed a brief break during the holidays, which I intentionally spent more consciously and mindfully than on any previous holiday. I’ve learned that every journey with an emphasis on mindfulness not only enriches, but is also more transformative. Every moment – from the aroma of morning coffee to a walk under snow-capped trees or a brief encounter with a stranger – everything is an opportunity for an in-depth experience of new impressions, new places and exploration of oneself. For me, mindfulness resulted in a marvellous experience and a new realisation: no journey takes place only on the outside – the most precious experience can be found within ourselves.
