How to Develop a Mindfulness Practice

In supporting thousands of people on their journey to improve their ability to control their attention, invite more positivity into their daily lives, and bounce back from setbacks, the most often asked questions are explored below. While there is no, one right way to practice, here are a few things we have learned over the years.

• Does consistency matter?
  Just like with physical exercise, consistency is the key to seeing benefits. And that’s why we recommend you build your skill with DAILY practice. 

• How long should I practice?
  You can see noticeable positive changes in your life by practicing just a few minutes daily. Our exercises were designed for busy people like you and don’t require you to close your eyes or find a place to recline. You can even do them while walking, eating, or commuting. So, just a few minutes is all you need.

• How often should I practice?
  Many people indicate that they can practice more than once daily. They utilize their favorite exercises. For example, many find that a simple and brief practice before an important meeting or presentation, between switching tasks, or when they want to focus or listen better, enhances their performance. The thing to remember is that any practice is better than no practice.

• What if I stop practicing, do I lose the benefits?
  People often want to know what happens if they miss a day or even longer. Just like physical exercise, the benefits diminish over time, but many find that when they begin their practice again, they gain ground faster than when they first started to practice.

• What is the best time to practice?
  Well, any time, of course! But seriously, this is truly based on individual preference. Many people find that starting their day with a brief practice sets the tone for the day. Other options include practicing at lunch, commuting, or transitioning from one task to another. And others find that practicing before bedtime is a great way to ensure a good night’s sleep. 

• Is it ok to do the same practice every day? 
  We have learned through our research that you can benefit even if you do the same practice every day. The best practice is one that works with your lifestyle and personal preference. For example, many people frequently use breathing exercises throughout their day when they feel tension or stress building up.

• How do I know when I don’t need to practice anymore?
  People often think of mindfulness as something you do for a period, such as when life is particularly stressful. Think about it this way, once you get into physical shape, you don’t stop exercising, do you? Similarly, your mindfulness is a practice for life. While you will likely change the time, place, and type of practice you do as your life changes, the need for practice never ends.

It is natural to have questions, especially when you begin to practice. The key thing to keep in mind is that any practice is good practice. A helpful tip is to set a reminder in your calendar or daily planner to help you remember.