"Mindfulness: to access greater awareness in our lives, we simply need to shift the focus of our attention to make certain non-conscious mind conscious. Our inner world is reflected in the outer. Whether or not you think this is possible all depends on what you think and believe.' - Daniel Siegel
Science discovers the benefits of Mindfulness
We are living in an exciting time! Neuropsychologists have discovered that our brains our malleable and we can change the way we think, feel and experience the world in ways we previously thought impossible. We are not at the mercy of our upbringing, conditioning or current circumstances. The modes and methodologies being implemented to evoke such change seem almost too good to be true. Yet, studies are showing the impact of mindfulness practices far exceeds relaxation and a peaceful mindset. People are releasing limiting thoughts and behaviors, living life with greater joy and acceptance and cultivating compassion for others. We have the power to directly experience ourselves beyond who we think we are and what we think we were capable of.
Neurons that fire together wire together.
There is an integral connection between the brain and the mind, and no, they are not the same thing. Where we focus our attention shapes our experience: our thoughts, beliefs, sensations and emotions.
How do you think you got to be who you are?
You are not your job, accomplishments, status or history.
Over our lifetime a series of experiences, thoughts, emotions and beliefs occurred with repetition to construct your identity and worldview. We think/feel something and then we have a belief or perception about that thing we thought or felt. Eventually, these beliefs become lodged in our subconscious and it informs and shapes how we respond and perceive others and life events. Essentially, we are running on autopilot.
Your brain is constructed for efficiency, making new connections and shifting out of mental autopilot. No more cruise control for this brain! Initially your brain will have to work harder to cultivate greater awareness and to choose to be happy on purpose.
There's a popular saying on the internet these days that says, "Make a choice to be happy". What does that really mean? The answer is subtle. Mindfulness meditation also shows us how to do it.
But first, let me explain it a bit more. Most people don't realize that we have a choice but we do. Each moment we have a choice as to how we respond and interpret life occurs both internally and externally. It's incredibly empowering to know that you can exist however you want to exist in every moment regardless of circumstances or the thoughts and opinions of others.
Wouldn't it be nice to have greater peace, joy and equanimity in our lives? How about letting go of the need to control outcomes, misperceptions of others and the capacity to slow down the fast brain?
Wouldn't you like to choose to be happy no matter what?
Don't believe it's possible?
I and many others are living proof beyond scientific evidence that supports the idea that is possible.
My method uses and stems from contemplative and mindfulness practices, neuroplasticity, somatic experiencing, inquiry, neurolinguistic re-patterning and guided visualization.
Suspend disbelief and discover what is possible when you use the brain to transform the experience of being you with greater equanimity and joy.
Sara Snedeker is a Mindfulness Life and Creativity Coach. Here are a couple of ways to contact her:
1. Schedule a 20-min Discovery Call
This introductory phone call will let us know if we're a good fit. We'll schedule a time and chat for 20 minutes. A lot of people feel like they get value just from the 20-min call alone.
2. Book a Coaching Session to work with me one-on-one
One-on-one sessions last for 60 minutes. We can meet in my studio in North Seattle area, online through Skype or by phone.