Mindful exercise are about performing physical activity whilst focusing inward. The idea is that we try to let go of distractions and unrelated thoughts and focus our attention on our sensations, breath and the movements of the body.

Being mindful

Being mindful, allows us to pay full attention to our workout, and that means our exercise can be more effective. Mindful exercises are all about quality, not quantity, focusing attention on exercises like jogging, biking or lifting weights, paying attention to the breath and specific movements.

Mindful Exercise

With mindful exercise, you're looking for a balance between discipline, i.e. sticking to a training schedule and listening to your body’s needs, stretching your physical capacity, without having to push yourself to do something safely and effectively.

Here are 5 mindfulness practices to improve your fitness routine:

• While lifting weights, put your full attention on the muscles you are strengthening.  Feel your muscles contract and relax with each repetition. Allow your breath to be slow and steady;
• Whilst running, turn off the i-pad so that you’re listening to your sneakers, the rhythm of your breath and the movement of your arms;
• While stretching, close your eyes and take 10 slow breaths, as if you are breathing directly into the muscles you’re stretching. Notice how your focus and breath support your body to open-up and expand more easily;
• During spin class or when riding your bike, focus your mind on the movements of your leg muscles.  Smile and take a moment to appreciate the miraculous co-ordination of your body to perform such a task.
• Practicing mindfulness while exercising is good for both the mind and the body. It’s important they’re both in sync with each other.

The repetitive nature of any exercises, provides a perfect training ground for the art of mindfulness. It is important to continue to practice the listed skills above.