A Day of Mindfulness

Your emotional wellness is a key part of your overall wellness.

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that allows you to focus on being aware of what you’re experiencing in the present moment without judgment or interpretation. Mindfulness exercises can include breathing methods and imagery to relax your body and mind to lower stress.

Mindfulness helps you:

• Live in the moment. Being intentionally open and accepting of the present can help you find joy in simple pleasures.
• Accept yourself. Being kinder means you can treat yourself as you would a good friend.
• Pay closer attention. It can be difficult to slow down and notice things in a busy world.
• Focus on your breathing. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s important to sit and take deep breaths to calm yourself and be in the present moment.

Mindfulness on the go. Focus on your senses.

Having a lot to do can bring challenges when it comes to being mindful. When you’re on the go and need to slow down or calm down, focusing on your five senses — sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch — can help.^<2>

This mindfulness activity allows you to call your mind and body back to the present moment. Take a moment to get to a comfortable place and bring a snack. It doesn’t have to be quiet, but you’ll need to be able to focus on each of the senses. As you activate your five senses, focus on slowing your breathing and describe what you experience.

Set aside at least five minutes to complete this activity.

1. Call out five things you see.
2. Call out five things you smell.
3. Call out five things you touch.
4. Call out five things you taste.
5. Call out five things you hear.

Being mindful in your surroundings. A mindful to-do list.

Hands-on activities and connecting with nature can help you be in touch with your surroundings.

• Take a nature walk.
• Take a bubble bath.
• Try a new hobby.
• Stretch your muscles.
• Color with new crayons or markers.
• Fall asleep to spa music.
• Sleep with a stuffed animal.
• Make a list of things and people that make you feel grateful.
• Try a new food.
• Cook a new recipe.
• Daydream in the dark.
• Clean your home to your favorite music.
• Sit in silence and focus on your breathing.

Your mental health matters

If you or a family member are experiencing challenges in life — big or small — you’re not alone. Your health plan offers resources to support your mental health and to help loved ones who may be struggling. If you have questions or need support, visit wellpointmass.com or call our customer service team at 833-663-4176. We’re here to help.