Day 12

Healthylife® QuitWell™

Part 6

Man on computer.

Now Awareness

Where your mind goes, you will go too. You can redirect your mind when you get an urge. Now Awareness is a simple, powerful tool to help you do this.

When an urge (or any unwanted thought) comes to mind, say to yourself, “Now I am aware of ____________.” Finish the sentence by naming objects you can see. For example, if you are sitting in your kitchen, you might say: “Now I am aware of the stove”; Now I am aware of the clock”; “Now I am aware of the sink”, etc. Keep this up until your urge passes.

Keep your thoughts focused. You are flexing the muscle of awareness and mind control when you do this. This tool can also be used to get through a stressful situation or when you feel your thoughts spiraling out of control.

Come back to the present. You can use your own body for Now Awareness as well. Notice your hands. Notice your arms. Notice your shoulders. Notice any tension in your body and try to release it. Notice your breath.

When you are able to bring your mind under control, solutions to problems you may not have noticed before may appear. You may feel that something that seemed hard is now easier. You may feel more at peace. Try it!

Today’s Affirmation:

I will direct my mind to calm, present thoughts when I have an urge.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine