MICHIGAN MINDFULNESS
PATH TO PRESENCE

01
MINDFULNESS TOOLS
Mindfulness tools can assist in helping you become the conscious observer and director of your life:
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Breath Awareness: Focus on your breathing to anchor yourself in the present moment. Notice the sensation of the air entering and leaving your nostrils or the rise and fall of your chest. This practice helps calm the mind.
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Watching Thoughts Like Clouds in the Sky: Visualize your thoughts as clouds passing through the sky. Observe them without judgment, allowing them to drift away naturally. This practice helps you detach from your thoughts and reduces their impact on your emotions.
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Body Awareness: Conduct a body scan to bring attention to different parts of your body, noticing any tension or discomfort. Start from the top of your head and move down to your toes, acknowledging and releasing any physical sensations. This practice fosters a deeper connection with your physical self, the moment in front of you and promotes relaxation.
“The breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness.”
– Thich Nhat Hanh
“When you own your breath, nobody can steal your peace.”
- Unknown
02
JOURNALING
Journaling is a space for self-reflection and self-discovery. It is a place where your deep inner wisdom can come through, revealing messages and answers. Here are a few prompts we have discussed recently:
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“What is one area of my life where I react on autopilot? What would it look like to bring more mindful awareness to those moments?
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"What is a small moment or experience recently that brought you pure joy, and how can you invite more of those moments into your life?
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"If you could go back and thank your past self for one decision or moment, what would it be, and how has it shaped who you are today?"
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"In what ways am I inspired to grow or expand right now, and what’s a small first step I could take?"
“Whether you’re keeping a journal or writing as a meditation, it’s the same thing. What’s important is you’re having a concious relationship with your mind.” - Natalie Goldberg


03
AFFIRMATIONS
Self-affirmations are meant to instill positive internal thought patterns. Continue consciously repeating affirmations throughout your day to foster precious moments of mindfulness. Affirmations can help shift your mindset, boost your confidence, and create a more positive outlook on life. Use these or create your own:
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I embrace change with an open heart and welcome new beginnings.
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I am grateful, I am grateful, I am grateful.
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I radiate love, joy, and positivity.
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I choose happiness, presence and joy in every moment.
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There is a divine plan of goodness for me
and my work.
“An affirmation opens the door. It’s a beginning point on the path to change.” — Louise Hay
04
DAILY PRACTICE
Daily meditation practice is a powerful tool for achieving mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being. Regular meditation practice fosters a deeper connection with your inner self and the present moment, promoting a sense of gratitude and joy. The cumulative effects of daily practice can lead to profound personal growth, improved relationships, and a more harmonious and fulfilling life. There are many simple ways to prioritize a daily practice, here are two suggestions to get started:
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In the Morning: Find a quiet space as soon as you wake up, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath or a guided meditation. This practice can set a positive tone for the day, enhance your focus, and boost your energy levels.
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Before Bed: Spend 10-15 minutes in a peaceful spot, practicing mindfulness or deep breathing exercises. This can help release the stress of the day, promote relaxation, and improve the quality of your sleep.
“To begin to meditate is to look into our lives with interest in kindness and discover how to be wakeful and free.” Jack Kornfield

RESOURCES
BOOKS
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself
Michael A. Singer
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The Celestine Prophecy
James Redfield
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment
Eckhart Toll
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PODCASTS
MUSIC &
Tara Brach
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Guided meditations
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Teachings on radial acceptance and self-compassion
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Music to promote Inner Peace
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7wMYeSdZlVmXgDzbT22nJY?si=e06bc4f3af9444e2
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GUIDED MEDITATIONS
& APPS
Insight Timer App
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Filled with guided meditations for all occasions
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Customizable mindful experience
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