What if you could find more focus, clarity, and effectiveness in daily life by learning a 10-minute mindfulness technique and at the same time have a positive impact on the world? Join the Mindful in May movement next month and you can make it happen.
What is Mindful in May?
Mindful in May is a social enterprise determined to spread the benefits of mindfulness as far as possible, while simultaneously addressing issues around global poverty. It has grown to become the world’s largest online global mindfulness fundraising campaign. Mindful in May’s founder, Elise Bialylew, is a doctor in psychiatry, turned social entrepreneur and mindfulness expert. She’s also the author of the bestselling meditation book, The Happiness Plan, and has been featured on Australian television and radio, and globally in the Huffington Post and New York Times.
Mindful in May teaches thousands of people to meditate, while raising money to support clean water projects in developing countries.
Why is mindfulness so important?
With the burgeoning mental health crisis in Australia, and the inability to be disconnected thanks to our reliance on smartphones, it’s become harder than ever to concentrate or take time out from our busy lives. Mindfulness is the practice of being able to bring one’s attention fully into the present moment, using techniques such as controlled breathing and meditation. The theory behind being able to master mindfulness is that it helps us tune in to our thoughts and feelings, and become less reactive to what is thrown at us throughout the day. By slowing down and becoming aware of our thoughts and feelings, we can manage them better, rather than being overwhelmed by them.
Gone are the days of meditation and mindfulness being woo-woo. These days it is a common practice taught to industry professionals, emergency personnel such as firefighters, and has been widely accepted as a success factor for world-class performers across a range of modalities.
Johann Hari discusses the benefits in his book, Stolen Focus – Why You Can’t Pay Attention. An eye-opening read for anyone who has felt their concentration muscle waning and their productivity slipping. The irony is that fewer people are getting through books these days, as our thoughts get processed in a series of Tik Tok sized snippets.
What's included in Mindful in May?
Once you register for Mindful in May, you get access to a world-class online learning platform that includes lessons and guided meditations to help you bring mindfulness into a part of your everyday life.
The program includes:
- Guided meditations from some of the world’s best meditation teachers
- Daily emails to support you in forming a habit of daily meditation
- Access to an online community through Facebook
- Video interviews with experts in the field for inspiration and greater understanding
- Easy access to content via a mobile app
- Recommended reading for those who choose to continue their learning
- Certificate of Completion for those who complete all of the modules
Upon registration, participants can donate to support, Mindful in May’s partner, Charity: water which goes to building clean water projects in developing communities.
How to get involved with Mindful in May 2024?
Any challenge is more fun with a friend, so why not encourage a friend or family member to do it alongside you? The great thing about this initiative is that there are no barriers to entry. No matter your age, ability, or lifestyle, ten minutes of meditation per day is achievable, and the rewards can be huge. Not to mention, you’re helping a great cause along the way. You can register for Mindful in May 2024 here.
And if you want a little more motivation to switch off, watch this compelling and artful video that’s doing the social media rounds:
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