Bringing Mindfulness to Life
We are thrilled to be equipping the staff of various city agencies this year with mindfulness tools that lower their stress levels and help them maintain focus and calm in challenging situations. The Baltimore Station Executive Director commented, “I was struck by the openness and increased introspection among the staff. With SHINE, we created a space … so that regardless of staff position, they all began to relate positively to one another.”
In SHINE, we emphasize gratitude because of the powerful effects it has on the physical body, as well as mental and emotional outlook. Research shows that people who practice gratitude by keeping a gratitude journal are healthier, more optimistic and more likely to achieve their goals.
In our fast-paced lives it is common to be on autopilot and not fully present to what we are saying or doing. When we use the “STOP” Key to Mindfulness, each letter helps us create a meaningful pause – a breathing space – before acting. STOP allows us to respond, rather than react to what is happening.
