Advantages of Mindfulness for Individuals With ADHD
I heard more than 20 years ago that mindfulness can help people with ADHD. But I wasn’t listening. It was too “New Age-y” and trendy. I also got overwhelmed by the idea of doing a new activity, even one that promised to make my life better.
It was too many steps, I thought, and I didn’t know where or how to begin. Do I have to read a book and teach myself? Which book? Did i need lessons? Where were the classes? How much was it? How time consuming? Would it pay off? I’ve accepted too many roadblocks. I thought it was impossible for someone with ADHD to stay in the moment.
Three months ago, I discovered a free mindfulness app that makes it easy to give it a try. I was finally ready to try. I listened to the program a couple of times, but the teacher didn’t speak to me. Then I found the free UCLA Mindful app that has a very calm and accepting teacher.
[Get This Free Download: Mindful Meditation for ADHD]
She said things like, “You can close your eyes, partially close them, or leave them open. Whatever works for you ”and“ You can sit up or lie on the floor. Whatever you decide is perfectly fine. “
There was no way I could fail with her accommodating instructions.
At first I was discouraged. “I can not do this! My thoughts wander on, ”I thought.
Then I challenged myself to improve – and I did. After following Teacher’s instructions for a few months, I decided to go into business for myself.
Instead of listening to mindfulness classes during exercise, I listen to deep classical music on my rowing machine and rock songs while cycling.
[Self Test: Do I Have ADHD? System Test for Adults]
I mistakenly thought that mindfulness means spending 30 minutes or more a day thinking about nothing. This is not true. It’s about focusing on the present moment and listening. I even learn song lyrics that I never knew because I haven’t listened carefully in the past.
Don’t wait 20 years to find your own mindfulness fit. The changes are subtle but significant. You become more present with others, more relaxed, more peaceful and happier all round.
Benefits of Mindfulness For ADHD: The Next Steps
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