Editor's Picks: Practicing Mindfulness So You Don't Punch Someone In The Face #Facts

In the fast-paced lifestyle of New York City, where the hustle never seems to stop, one of the most valuable resources we have is our energy and where we direct it. Between the endless notifications on our phones, the economic pressures we face, and the constant juggling of work, life, and family, it can often feel impossible to stay on top of everything. What many of us don't realize, however, is that this unrelenting pace is disrupting our natural balance. The result? A rise in anxiety, fear, and even depression—emotions that can take a serious toll on both our days and our lives.

If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the pause button, escaping to a serene beach, or simply checking out from responsibilities—yet find that option unavailable—there’s a gentler way to approach life that can help restore balance. And the key to that balance lies not in escaping, but in how we choose to respond to our thoughts.

Learning to Let Go: The Power of Detachment

Our thoughts and emotions are constant companions, but if we focus on them too intensely, they begin to control us. Here's the truth: your thoughts and worries won’t stop just because you want them to. But by learning to understand them—and then letting them go—you can regain control. This practice isn’t just a mental exercise; it’s a spiritual and emotional one, too.

Think of your thoughts like the wind—passing through, fleeting, never meant to stay. Learning to let go of emotional attachments to these thoughts can bring a profound sense of peace. This practice is often referred to as prayer, mindfulness, or meditation. No matter what you call it, incorporating it into your daily routine can transform how you navigate your day.

My Journey with Mindfulness and Prayer

When I began practicing mindfulness and prayer, I immediately felt a sense of peace. Instead of focusing on my thoughts, I tuned into my breath and my body. I found a comfortable position (sitting upright, as lying down would’ve been a sure path to sleep), and I just was. I started my day by reading scripture, and throughout the day, I returned to it to center myself.

It wasn’t just about my emotions; it was about being mindful of the emotions of others. We all get triggered by our own emotional misunderstandings from time to time, and that’s okay. What matters is that you are only responsible for your reaction—both for yourself and for others.

We all live just once in this body and mind, and we don’t have to be shaped by our upbringing or environment.

Steps to Cultivating Peace and Mindfulness

Here are some simple steps I follow daily, inspired by teachings from the Bible, motivational authors, and meditation experts. While I personally integrate prayer into my practice, you can tailor these to fit your own spiritual or wellness routine:

1. Find a Comfortable Position

Take a deep breath and let it out. Whether you’re sitting in a chair or on your bed, find a position that feels natural. You don’t need to twist yourself into a yoga pose or sit cross-legged—just be comfortable.

2. Focus on Your Breath and Body

Close your eyes and find the place in your body where you feel your breath the most—whether it’s in your chest, abs, or nostrils. Allow your breath to become the anchor for your attention.

3. Detach from Your Thoughts

It’s normal for thoughts, sensations, or images to pop up as you settle into your breath. Don’t judge them or become frustrated. Instead, gently bring your focus back to your breathing. With time, your breath will be the only thing you sense. Once you’ve mastered this, you can begin to visualize feelings of love, joy, hope, or success—whatever brings you peace.

Even if you only have five minutes, make sure you finish your practice feeling uplifted. Remember, your mind doesn’t distinguish between reality and your positive visions—it responds to what you feed it. If you focus on love, abundance, and blessings, that’s what you’ll attract.

Peace is an Everyday Practice

Mindfulness, like any successful endeavor, takes work. But the reward is peace. Just as you instinctively check your phone throughout the day, you can make peace a priority. Commit to practicing daily mindfulness, whether through prayer or meditation, and give yourself the time and space to cultivate inner peace.

You have one life to live—don’t spend it consumed by distractions. Give yourself the care and attention you deserve.

Written by Editor-In-Chief Lori Brown