Transcending the Fear of the Evil Eye
As practitioners of mindfulness, we understand the importance of being present in the present moment and how it can affect our physical and mental well-being. One of the ways in which mindfulness can bring balance to our lives is by reducing the levels of stress hormones in our body, such as cortisol and adrenaline.
Cortisol and adrenaline are released in response to stress. They are useful in short-term situations, but when they become chronic, they can lead to a host of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Studies have shown that mindfulness practices such as meditation can help lower cortisol and adrenaline levels in the body. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that after just 8 weeks of mindfulness meditation, cortisol levels in participants were significantly reduced.
As Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us, “The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it. ” When we are caught in the cycle of stress, we often feel like we are in a state of constant fight or flight. Our bodies are in a heightened state of alert and it can be hard to relax or let go of our worries. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to recognize when our body is in this state and then make the conscious choice to let go of our worries and focus on the present moment.
We can start by simply taking a deep breath and focusing on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of our body. By doing so, we can bring our attention back to the present moment, and in turn, lower our cortisol and adrenaline levels.
Mindfulness practice is not just about sitting and meditating, it is also about bringing mindfulness into our everyday lives. We can practice mindfulness when we are washing dishes, walking, or even when we are stuck in traffic.
It’s important to remember that reducing stress is not just about being relaxed, but also about being present in the present moment, and being mindful of our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. By doing so, we can bring balance and peace to our lives, and reduce the negative effects of stress on our bodies and minds.
Let us take a deep breath and be present in the present moment. Let us cultivate mindfulness in our everyday lives, to reduce stress and bring balance and peace to ourselves and those around us.
With peace and understanding, in mindfulness.
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