Mindfulness. Over the years, this practice has gained popularity and proven to help in oh so many ways. It’s a type of guided meditation helping adults, children, students and those seeking guidance through therapy find comfort and acceptance with themselves.  Not to mention this tool is used to decrease stress, worry and uncertainty of life and its daily challenges. No judgment, no shame, just balance for the mind, body and soul.

But what exactly is it, and why should you start practicing? Those answers and more are just a few paragraphs away. And since summer is in full gear, and many of us are calmer and have more time than usual, it’s the perfect opportunity to start. 

Let’s begin.

What is mindfulness?

Chances are you’ve heard about being mindful or present. No matter where you turn, mindfulness seems to be a “go-to” strategy helping people develop their sense of self, become in tune with their thoughts and emotions and cope with challenges life throws. Certain things such as anxiety or stress can slowly melt away with the right tool and trick.

In a nutshell, mindfulness is a practice focusing on creating an awareness of your surroundings and being present in the moment. Letting go of what’s out of your control and appreciating the beauty and calm of what surrounds us.  Once learned, it’s an amazing tool that can help you cope with struggles or obstacles you thought you’d never face. But not just you. Everyone no matter who they are or what they’re going through benefits from this quiet practice. Especially those going through infertility. Mindfulness is a way to come to terms with your journey and the next steps forward allowing you to clear your mind and feel more in control and at peace with whatever comes your way.

Mindfulness is used in different therapies and interventions allowing clients to accept their feelings, let go if just for a moment of the stressors and worries of life and reconnect with their mind, body and soul. All of which are key in finding comfort in your journey- and it’s simple! Intrigued yet? Good. Keep reading.

1. Mindfulness All Summer Long

Dealing with infertility is tough and draining for that matter. It challenges you in many ways- physically and emotionally. And these reasons are example why many dealing with infertility turn to mindful practice for calm, balance and stress reduction. But why start now? 

Summer is the perfect time to incorporate some self-care into your daily routine. During the summer months you’re outside more, have more free time or go on more vacations. It’s the time of year when those warm rays give us a sense of happiness, renewal, realization and allow us to welcome in the beauty of nature. Perfect for self-care. Every season has something to offer but it’s summer that makes us feel better, gain more energy and have the opportunity to connect with ourselves on a deeper level. Simply walking more, soaking in some vitamin D, enjoying the sunset or sitting by a crackling fire ignite our senses and allow us to appreciate the little things in life. 

And that’s where healing comes into play. All of these pieces come together to support infertility. Stress, anxiety, self-doubt are common with infertility and have a negative impact on your well-being. Mindfulness is a way to stay present, enjoy the moment, fully appreciate yourself and believe in healing. Summer fosters that as well. Heading to the beach? Great! Close your eyes, breathe deeply and let the sound of the ocean soothe your soul! What about the mountains? Nature is incredibly healing. Watc the sunrise over a mountain peak, practice quiet meditation while birds are singing in the background or simply taking a hike or stroll through nature. No matter where you’re headed, summer and nature work beautifully together, giving you a place for reflection and healing. You’ll feel calm, at peace and ready for whatever life hands you next.

2. Mindfulness for Your Health

One of the biggest benefits of mindful practice is accepting yourself, letting go of your insecurities or struggles and giving yourself permission to just be. All those aspects are essential especially when dealing with infertility. Infertility takes a toll on your mind and body. You may feel lonely, discouraged and unappreciative of who you are. Through all this, it’s important to remember that infertility doesn’t define you as a person. You’re much more than “a parent” or “having children.” You’re unique and special. Mindfulness allows you to reconnect with that ideal.

If you’ve never tried mindful practice before, no need to worry. There are several easy-to-follow videos and exercises you can do anytime you have a quiet moment.Take time for yourself, and immerse yourself in the healing benefits of mindfulness. If going through IVF for example or other fertility treatments, quiet meditations and a focus on positive affirmations help balance your mind, body and soul. Guided meditation can be used to put your mind at ease and take solace in knowing that taking care of yourself leads to a healthier, stronger and happier you. Try some quick practices like the ones below-

Visualization During IVF 

Pathway to Pregnancy 

Positive Affirmations

3. Mindfulness as a Continued Practice

Mindfulness isn’t just a practice you pick up and then forget. It’s something to be incorporated on a daily basis, helping you find and secure the beauty you have within. It can be done anywhere and for any amount of time. Whether you have five minutes, ten or twenty all you have to do is find a quiet comfortable spot and breathe. Connect your breath with your mind and body. 

Continued practice has also been linked to better well-being, overall health, reduced stress and decreased anxiety. Just another reason to give it a try now and go forward. It’s a practice that therapists recommend to improve the mental health of their patients. 

Increased relaxation, a newly gained appreciation and acceptance of who you are- why wouldn’t you give mindful meditation a try? You deserve to believe in yourself, love who you are and find peace no matter what path your journey takes you.