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Sally Doran's avatar

Like you, I used to be good at “mind-FULL-ness”! It was only when I connected “mind” with “notice” , like “mind the gap” or “mind your manners,” that I really understood the concept of being mindful. Now my morning quiet time to notice what’s moving through my thoughts is the key to my well-being.

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

I’m glad you found what worked for you Sally. It really is a process of observation and understanding- making those connections that stick.

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Sara Redondo, MD's avatar

Tracy, thank you for sharing such an honest and grounded reflection on your journey with mindfulness. Your story beautifully captures the struggle many face, trying to force themselves into predefined molds of what “should” work instead of honoring what actually does. Fantastic post, as always.

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

Sara, I always appreciate your thoughts and comments as your perspective is one we can all learn from. Thank you for reading, sharing and supporting my work.

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Donna McArthur's avatar

This is a great reminder not to get hung up on all the specifics of mindfulness but rather to show up and pay attention. As you said Tracy, there are many ways to pay attention and we can figure out what works best for us. I've never been able to formally meditate, despite years of trying. I call what I do contemplation which involves reading meaningful material, sometimes writing, thinking or praying and simply paying attention. This is what seems to work the best for me, a combo of a few things.

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Shelby Tutty, MHA's avatar

Very clear and understandable approach to mindfulness. Your explanation simplifies it but doesn't make it simple. Wish we had started the mindfulness craze with this article. Everything else would have been unnecessary. Great job!

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

Thanks so much, Shelby for the kind comment. I try to make it simple and write from experience. Glad it resonated.

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Patty Asaad's avatar

You wrote one of the best explanations I’ve read of mindfulness. I’ve wanted to be more mindful, but I’ve struggled with some of the same issues you mentioned such as feeling I wasn’t doing it “right” or long enough. Your insights in this post were so relatable. My favorite line was, “But when your body gives up, your mind is forced to do the heavy lifting. I had no choice but to change.” This sums up where I have been, too. Thank you

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

Patty,Thanks so much for reading and commenting. I hope you found what worked for you.

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Sandra Pawula's avatar

Tracy, I love how you make mindfulness so user friendly! The options you've given will make it easier to get started. Thanks!

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Robert Oliva's avatar

Tracy, I’ve been practicing meditation/mindfullness for 50 years. I’ve trained with renowned Buddhist monks, met Hindu gurus, practiced Yoga for decades. I must say your article was one of the best I ever read. U have an extraordinary grasp. U get it. Thank you.

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

Robert, thank you for your kind comment. I appreciate that you took the time to read and comment.

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Paulette Bodeman's avatar

Great post, Tracy.

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Tracy Mansolillo's avatar

Thank you, Paulette!

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