Take steps towards a healthy mind with ‘mindfulness’

A healthy mind is something we take for granted. We follow the ‘five-a-day’ rule to keep our bodies on track; why not do the same for our brain? At least that’s what BBC regular (GP) Jonty Heaversedge and meditation teacher Ed Halliwell suggest.

The duo are the co-authors of The Mindful Manifesto – first published in 2010 and recently revised and updated – which preaches the value of ‘mindfulness’; something the UK government recommends as one of your five-a-day for a healthy mind.

So, what exactly is mindfulness and where do we get some?

Mindfulness is all about remaining present, staying aware and practising the art of observation, which in turn helps us fulfil our responsibilities as members of society. The Mindful Manifesto is an instruction on the art and skill of said mindfulness.

It includes historical roots with tips and suggestions on how you can begin to develop your own mindfulness practice and real life stories of people whose lives have been helped by mindfulness. The book also features new practical ‘mindfulness’ exercises, the latest cutting-edge scientific studies and further applications for mindfulness including:

- Reducing stress/anxiety and improving creativity in the workplace.

- Physical pain management.

- Stopping smoking, and managing alcohol problems and eating disorders.

- Building healthier relationships.

- Learning to make more rational decisions.

- Encouraging more environmentally-friendly behaviour.

It’s a book for people who want to:

- Bring your body into balance, let go of addictions and manage chronic illness.

- Relate more skillfully at home and at work.

- Cope with the busyness of everyday life.

- Understand how this powerful ancient technique can and is making a real difference to the health and happiness of our society.

Sounds like something we could all use?

For more info, visit Themindfulmanifesto.com.

What are your tips for maintaining a healthy mind? Do you agree with ‘mindfulness’?