Ohio State University Extension's Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) program promotes healthy living. Mindfulness is not a new concept, but along with topics like healthy eating and exercise, it is gaining recognition as part of a healthy lifestyle in the United States. OSU Extension offers an overview on the science behind the art of mindfulness as well as the health benefits of stress reduction. Practicing mindfulness has short-term and long-term benefits, starting with an immediate sense of calm, but reducing anxiety, depression, stress, and even chronic pain over time.
WHAT IS MINDFULNESS?
“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: On purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” -- Jon Kabat-Zinn
EXPLORING MINDFULNESS:
- Follow the Live Smart Ohio Mind and Body blog
- OSU Extension fact sheets:
There are many other resources out there as well. Patrice Powers-Barker, an Extension family and consumer sciences educator, shares a great list of books about mindfulness in her blog post On the Bookshelf – MIndfulness. As you snuggle inside during the latest snowstorm, this is a great time to do some reading! In Let it Snow! Mindful Winter Activities, Patrice shares some great tips to try while the snow is flying! You can also check out this Mindfulness Tip Sheet, by Dr. Theresa M. Ferrari, an OSU Extension 4-H youth development specialist.
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center recommends mindfulness practice to complement medical treatment to help reduce anxiety, chronic pain, depression, insomnia and stress. Ohio State’s Center for Integrative Health and Wellness offers free mindfulness recordings for personal use through the OSU Wexner Medical Center. Additional guided imagery downloads are available through the OSU Health Plan.
Just like learning any new skill like cooking, swimming or riding a bike, mindfulness takes time and practice. Consider listening to a download for a few times before you decide it’s not for you. Once you’ve discovered some of your favorite ways to practice mindfulness, keep it up.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
For more information about the new Ohio State University Extension Mindful Wellness curriculum, contact Stacey Baker, Healthy Relationships program specialist, at baker.782@osu.edu or Patrice Powers-Barker, educator in the Lucas County office of OSU Extension, at powers-barker.1@osu.edu.