I often talk about the mental health of older adults. We’ve discussed loneliness, community-building, and more. Mindfulness is one of the many tools for mental wellbeing that older adults can use. This tool is one that a lot of older adults may not be familiar with, especially if they do not see a mental health professional regularly.
What is Mindfulness?
According to Felipe Bastos’ 2024 article for Mindowl about mindfulness, “Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present, helping seniors reduce stress and improve mental health. Exercises like mindful breathing and body scans can lead to better mood and sharper thinking.” It covers various practices but the core of it is self-reflection as a tool for mental wellness.
Benefits of Mindfulness
Mindfulness has certain benefits for older adults, including stress relief. This can also be a healthy tool used to work through serious issues in someone’s life, or even just common every day stresses. I like it for compartmentalizing and decompressing.
How Can I Pick the Best Method for Me?
I’m going to tackle mindfulness methods in a later post, but there are many different options you can use. These options include but are not limited to guided meditation, journaling, and yoga. The best method for you is the one that you can do consistently.
Have you tried mindfulness? Let us know down below. Stay tuned for more on the blog!
Written by Brigid Stakelum
