Mindfulness — it’s a word that’s become pretty trendy lately, right?
It seems like there’s a bit of a stigma around calling yourself a mindful person these days. As if saying you’re a mindful mother (or parent) means people expect you to bake only organic goods, wear dungarees, have an allotment (I actually did have one once 🤣), and never drop the F-bomb or enjoy a few too many glasses of wine.
I’m here to tell you — that’s a load of crap.
So, What Is Mindfulness, Really?
At its core, mindfulness is simply about being aware — noticing what’s happening inside and around you without judgment. And that’s something anyone can do with practice.
The kids have dropped food all over the floor, everyone’s screaming and overstimulated? Take a deep breath and remind yourself: we’re all just tiny humans living on a floating rock in space. That’s mindfulness.
Chasing your kids through the forest, covered in mud, trying to stop your youngest from eating rocks — then taking a moment to stop, look around, breathe in the fresh air, and feel grateful for the beauty around you. That’s mindfulness.
Taking time out for yourself — whether it’s yoga, the gym, a walk in nature, dinner with friends, or even a Netflix binge in your pajamas with snacks — and allowing yourself to reconnect and unwind. That’s mindfulness too.
How to Practice Mindfulness
There are so many ways to bring mindfulness into your day, but it often starts with something as simple as pausing in a moment of overwhelm.
Take a breath.
Meet whatever’s happening with steadiness and kindness.
Doing this regularly helps rewire your brain, creating new neural pathways that make it easier to stay grounded and aware of your emotions.
Whatever you’re feeling — anger, sadness, joy, gratitude — let yourself feel it. All of it. Feeling is what makes us human.
Nobody’s Perfect
And let’s be real — nobody gets it right all the time. I certainly don’t! My mindfulness practice escapes me sometimes. I get angry. I shout. I cry. Sometimes I go inward and struggle to express myself.
But those moments are exactly when I realise I need a time out — a mindful pause — a break from my thoughts. I take a step back, breathe, reevaluate, and try to meet whatever I’m feeling with patience and understanding.
A Final Thought
If the idea of mindfulness feels a bit unrealistic or even frustrating, that’s okay. It can sound like one more thing to add to an already overflowing plate — especially as a parent.
But mindfulness isn’t about perfection or pretending everything’s fine. It’s about giving yourself a little space to breathe, reflect, and approach your day with a clearer mind and softer heart.
So next time things feel chaotic, take a mindful moment for yourself.
Pause.
Breathe.
And remember — you don’t need to be perfect to be present. 🙏✨️
Mamas life adventures 