Our philosophy, The Art of Soulful Living is brought to life through our compass, that acts as a guide to personal wellbeing. This month, we are focusing on Mindfulness, one of the points on our compass. 

Mindfulness is a philosophy and practice that has gained enormous popularity in the West over the last few decades, and is often celebrated as the antidote to our busy, hectic world. It can help improve myriad issues – from chronic pain and stress, to mental anxiety and sleep problems. And there are many more benefits: increased mental focus and clarity, the power to lower blood pressure, increased creativity, and greater control of your emotions, to name only a few. If you think that sounds like a lot of woo-woo, think again. All this is backed by research and neuroscience. Quite remarkable, considering the fact that it finds its origins in ancient Eastern and Buddhist ideology, and most likely dates back more than 2,500 years.  

If you have only briefly been acquainted with mindfulness, the words awareness, being in the moment, and non-judgement are the first things that might spring to mind. Mindfulness is, indeed, paying attention to the moment right in front of you, and to experience that in full and conscious awareness; to not focus your energy on the past or the future. The past is something you cannot change, so why waste your attention there? Likewise, you can’t be certain of the future or what will happen next, so do not fret or feel anxious about things that you can’t possibly control.  

As the philosopher Alan Watts so eloquently said: ‘For unless one is able to live fully in the present, the future is a hoax. There is no point whatever in making plans for a future which you will never be able to enjoy. When your plans mature, you will still be living for some other future beyond. You will never, never be able to sit back with full contentment and say, ‘Now, I’ve arrived!’’  

Only joy, peace, and happiness live in the here and now. Give it your full attention. For you might miss all the little things that make your life beautiful. 

MINDFULNESS: A deep dive 

Spring is the perfect time to set resolutions (perfect, if you’re January ones didn’t stick). 

So many of us find it hard to properly relax (hands up TikTok scrollers... *stops typing to put hand up*) Want to truly switch off? Here’s our guide. 

In the mood to spring clean? This centuries-old tradition isn’t just good for your home, it’s good for your mind too.  

Here’s how shopping for refills is a more mindful choice. 

Want to understand what your dreams mean and how to work with them to mindfully create a life you love? Psychotherapist Machiel Klerk guides you in our Unlock Your Dreams Masterclass.

Read all about The Art of Soulful Living and each of the compass points here. 

Want to know more about mindfulness? Our first ever book, The Book of Rituals, delves deep into this topic and so much more. Featuring inspirational articles, unique artwork and wellbeing wisdom, this luxurious coffee table book is the ultimate guide to soulful living. Click here to shop The Book of Rituals.