If the word ‘meditation’ freaks you out, fear no more! 

I sat down with Group Fitness Coordinator and mindfulness enthusiast, Lisa Padgett, to get her tips for starting your mindfulness journey.

For starters, what is mindfulness?

According to Lisa, mindfulness is about being in the present moment. It is about being aware of the here and now, while not thinking about the past.

So ditch that to-do list for a few hours and focus on the present moment!

How do you practice mindfulness?

Lisa suggests starting with 3-5 minutes of meditation. For beginners, any longer might be difficult at first. She says meditation isn’t easy, but the benefits are amazing.

Check out the apps listed below to get started with guided meditation. This will get you headed in the right direction. It may be hard at first, but keep with it!

Take a class at The Rec!

Look no further to start your mindfulness journey, as The Rec offers a Mindfulness, Meditation, and Relaxation group fitness class. Check the schedule to see when the class is offered this summer and find a way to work it into your day.

Apps galore!

Try using the following apps to guide your mindfulness journey:

• Universal Breathing: Pranayama Free — this app offers guided breathing exercises and happens to be Lisa’s favorite!
• Insight Timer — this one offers guided meditations.
• The Mindfulness App — this has a variety of meditation, breathing, and yoga practices.

Have mindfulness tips to share? Want to keep us updated on your mindfulness journey? Tell us about it on social media @AuburnCampusRec

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Hannah C.