Mindfulness is something that everyone can incorporate into daily life.  Mindfulness involves observing and accepting the things around and within us, without judgment.  In therapy, Johanna may involve mindfulness skills to build awareness of various issues and to develop coping strategies.  Johanna also runs a six-week mindfulness group.  If you are interested in the next group cycle for mindfulness, please call the office.  The exercise below is not individualized to your needs as it may be in therapy, but is rather intended as a general exercise that you may find useful.

December’s mindfulness exercise:

Pick an everyday object.  This may be a rock from the ground, a piece of jewelry, a chapstick, wallet, or keys.  Take a deep breath in and out.  First hold the object in your hand and turn your eyes away (or close your eyes).  Notice how much space the object takes up in your hand; if the temperature is warm or cool; and what the texture is of the object.  Next, look at the object and observe the colors, pattern, shape, texture, size, and the way the light hits the object.  Notice if it looks the way you expected after holding it in your hand.  Perhaps drop it from one hand to the other to notice the weight of the object.  Pay attention to any thoughts or feelings that may come up within you as you complete this exercise.

NOTE: This is not intended to replace therapy.  Please contact Johanna at (585)406-3012 if you are interested in individual or group therapy.