So often we react instinctively, robotically, and habitually to the events and people that we encounter each day.  We glance down at our plate and think, “Did I really eat all of that?”  We rush away from a brief encounter with a friend and ask ourselves, “What did she say?”   We order our favorite meal at a restaurant and suddenly realize that we are not that hungry!

We go through many of our days on automatic, with lengthy to-do lists, taking little notice of the people or routine experiences of each day.  “The squeaky wheel gets the grease” and the rest goes virtually unnoticed.  Yet, there is so much to appreciate.  Perhaps it’s a beautiful sunrise or sunset, a helpful stranger, a friendly hug, a warm meal.  Recognizing and embracing these every day events takes no additional time or money.  Yes, you can add measurable joy and connection to each day for FREE! 

 Life is, in essence, a series of small events and brief encounters.  Can you imagine how much fuller your life will become when you learn to embrace and celebrate these?  Instead of quickly saying, “hi, how are you?” meaning it and really waiting for an honest reply. 

 This is appreciative mindfulness.  It’s almost like a scavenger hunt for the beauty and meaning in each moment. It is about embracing the people and experiences in front of us at any given time. Mindfulness is an acquired skill.  It must be practiced and intentional. As you learn to become more mindful in your thoughts and your actions, your life takes on new meaning. 

 I have studied mindfulness for years and continue to practice it today (“practice” is the key word!) but I have added a personal twist.  Not only do I aim to be mindful, I aim to be appreciatively mindful.  Not only do I want to be present and keenly aware of the moment, I want to find and appreciate its uniqueness, beauty, and meaning.  Be well.