by Mindfulness practice involves being fully present and aware of the present moment. This also encompasses being aware of our thoughts — even if the thoughts are of the past. Observe and just notice. Observe events and objects outside your body, as if seeing them for the first time. Also, take note of internal sensations in your body. These sensations may take the form of emotions, muscle tension, thoughts, and attitudes.
Today marks the 16th anniversary of the 9/11/01 attacks on our country. See if you can incorporate mindfulness practice in your observance of this anniversary. I have included excerpts from an article written by Lynn Louise Wonders below:
“The practice of mindfulness encourages us to be present. So, how does intentionally reflecting and recalling significant history fit in with mindfulness practice?
I named this group of writings “Gentle Observations” purposefully. When embracing the practice of mindfulness as a way of life and way of coping with challenges in life, we can not ignore or suppress factual events that have occurred and contributed to our present experience. We can, however, look upon history with a gentle examination while avoiding becoming bogged down in the past. We can, revisit events and emotions evoked by the remembering without allowing ourselves to become consumed. The practice of mindfulness is actually most often about the returning to the present moment after gentle observation of thoughts, feelings, sensations.
So, on this day that marks history for our world, our country and our personal lives, may a gentle remembering, an honoring of all those who suffered and lost be also a pivotal reminder of where we are here and now with gratitude for all that is.”