10 Mindful Minutes
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of MQ Mental Health, a dedicated mental health charity, there’s no better way to honour their work than by taking a mindful step towards our own mental wellbeing.
This Wellness Month, let’s commit to just 10 minutes of mindfulness a day, not only to support MQ Mental Health’s mission but also to nurture our own mental health.
Mindfulness
A mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment.
Get Started With Ways To Be Mindful
Mindfulness time encourages us to pay attention to our thoughts, emotions, and sensations, fostering a sense of awareness and relaxation.
10 Mindfulness Minutes Of Walking
Going for a relaxing 10-minute walk out in nature with the aim of relaxing.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Walking in nature offers a peaceful environment that can be impactful on your mental and emotional well-being. Stepping away from the busyness of daily life, and immersing yourself in nature can provide a sense of calm and relaxation for a clear mind. Exercising in the fresh air helps boost oxygen levels and reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.
Improved Sleep Quality
Regular exercise, including walking, has been proven to enhance sleep quality. By incorporating a daily walk in nature into your daily routine, you are not only improving your physical health but also setting the stage for a good night's sleep. Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and enjoy deep, restorative sleep. Adequate sleep is vital for maintaining hormonal balance, supporting your immune system, and promoting overall wellness.
Walking Resources
Find A New Walk:
The National Trust
Britain’s 100 Favourite Walks by The National Trust.
Walks Near You
For local walks visit Walking Britain to find nearby trails.
Are you local to Tarporley, Cheshire?
Visit Tarporley Walk & Talk | HealthboxCIC
10 Minute Meditations
Types of Meditations
Try out these simple meditations for just 10 minutes each day in the morning and see how they impact the rest of your day.
Present Moment Awareness
Are you worrying or living in the future too much? Return to ‘the now’ by engaging your senses by focusing on what you can hear, see, smell, taste and touch.
Active Attention Meditation
While doing tasks, such as driving or washing the dishes, focus fully on the task by not letting your mind wander off. This attention can then be applied to any task.
Breathwork Meditation
Meditating on your breath can make you feel alert and relaxed. Focus on breathing in for 5 seconds, and exhaling for 5 seconds (all through your nose) and feel your energy reset.
Check out these popular meditation apps for easy guided meditations:
Calm is the number 1 app for sleep and meditation. Join the millions experiencing better sleep, lower stress, and less anxiety.
Stress less with hundreds of meditations to help with relaxation, sleep and mood boosting.
The Oxford Mindfulness Foundation
Visit the internationally recognised mindfulness teaching and training website here.
Revolutionising Mental Health Research
MQ Mental Health Research’s 10th anniversary serves as a reminder that mental health is a journey we all share. By taking small steps towards mindfulness each day, we not only contribute to our own well-being but celebrate 10 years of MQ Mental Health Research.
Check Out MQ Mental Health Research’s website here to see how you can get involved!
