It’s very common to feel like you don’t have any free time available in the day to sit and be still, but the important thing to remember is that by doing this practice you are essentially giving yourself a gift. Mindfulness practice can actually enhance your ability to be more focused and productive throughout the day. It could also help you handle strong feelings like stress or anxiety, or experiences like a difficult interaction with a family member or friend, with much more flexibility and calm.
When you complete each mindfulness practice you have actually balanced your nervous system (this controls everything our bodies do, from walking to feeling emotion), and potentially created new pathways in your brain that can enhance your performance and ability to handle stress. These positive effects alone will likely save you time by helping you move through stressful or difficult situations and experiences without dwelling on them or having physical effects like stomach aches or headaches. It is using your time to invest in yourself, helping you become your best self, and each day improving on that goal.
Supporting your Young Person:
Just like us, our young people have full schedules on their plate. They may be feeling the same way — not sure how they are going to have time to add in more stuff! Challenge each other to create pockets of time for your practice and see who wins at the end of the week. Wake up one minute earlier in the morning and do a gratitude practice with your young person before you get ready for the day or as they wind down before bed. Or you can always double up on your healthy habits and quality time by doing some mindful walking and talking together.