Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, cultivating awareness of your body, feelings, and thoughts. It's about approaching each moment with gentle curiosity and acceptance, free from judgment.

Building Your Mindfulness Practice: Embarking on a mindfulness journey doesn't require hours of meditation or complex techniques. Here are some simple steps to get started:

• Start Small: Begin with just a few minutes of mindfulness each day—3 to 5 minutes can make a meaningful difference.
• Create Routine: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily schedule, making it a regular practice like brushing your teeth or exercising.
• Find Comfort: Sit comfortably but remain alert during your practice, allowing yourself to be present without distraction.
• Focus on the Breath: Begin by noticing your breath, then gradually expand your awareness to include body sensations and emotions.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself throughout your mindfulness practice, letting go of expectations and embracing the journey.
• End with Gratitude: Conclude your meditation with a few moments of appreciation, cultivating gratitude for the present moment.

Explore Mindfulness Resources: We offer various resources to support your mindfulness journey:

• Free Mid-Day Mindfulness Sessions: Join us Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 12:00 pm to 12:15 pm for guided mindfulness sessions led by UCSF Spiritual Care Services. Visit www.zoom.us with Webinar ID: 92659911873 and Password: 081257.
• Guided Meditations: Access free guided mindfulness meditations from reputable sources like the UCLA Mindfulness Research Center, Self-Compassion.org, Greater Good Science Center, Mindful.org, and UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Other Public Classes: Explore the benefits of mindfulness through UCSF's public classes on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Visit Public Classes | UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Health to learn more.