Mindfulness is a practice that can help us connect with the present moment and cultivate a sense of calm and awareness. However, mindfulness has often been taught and practiced in ways that are disconnected from the natural world and can reinforce colonial and capitalist ways of thinking.
Decolonizing your mindfulness practice can help you develop a more holistic and inclusive approach to mindfulness that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all living beings and fosters a greater sense of empathy and understanding. By decolonizing your mindfulness practice, you can:
- Connect with the natural world: Mindfulness practices that are disconnected from the natural world can reinforce colonial and capitalist ways of thinking. By incorporating nature into your mindfulness practice, you can foster a greater sense of connection with the world around you and cultivate a more eco-friendly mindset.
- Acknowledge diverse perspectives: Mindfulness practices that are rooted in a single cultural or religious tradition can be exclusionary to people from different backgrounds. Decolonizing your mindfulness practice means acknowledging and honoring diverse perspectives and creating a more inclusive environment for all.
- Foster empathy and understanding: Mindfulness practices that are disconnected from social justice issues can reinforce systems of oppression and privilege. By incorporating social justice into your mindfulness practice, you can foster greater empathy and understanding for those who are marginalized and work towards a more just and equitable society.
In this decolonized mindfulness practice, we’ll connect with the natural world by focusing on our at-home garden.
Step 1: Find a quiet spot in your garden where you can sit comfortably. You might choose to sit on the ground or on a cushion. Take a few deep breaths and feel your body relax.
Step 2: Take a few moments to observe your surroundings. Notice the colors, textures, and shapes of the plants and flowers around you. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the beauty of the garden.
Step 3: Take a deep breath and notice the scent of the flowers and plants around you. Pay attention to how they smell and how they make you feel. Allow yourself to fully experience the sensory richness of your garden.
Step 4: Take a moment to connect with the soil beneath you. Place your hands on the ground and feel the texture of the soil. Take a few deep breaths and feel your connection to the earth.
Step 5: Focus your attention on a single plant or flower. Notice its shape, color, and texture. Take a few deep breaths and imagine sending love and gratitude to the plant.
Step 6: Take a few moments to reflect on the interconnectedness of all living things. Notice how the plants in the garden rely on the soil, sun, and water to grow. Reflect on how you are also interconnected with the natural world.
Step 7: Take a few deep breaths and bring your attention back to your body. Notice how you feel physically and emotionally. Take a moment to thank yourself for taking the time to connect with the garden and the natural world.
By connecting with your at-home garden in this decolonized mindfulness practice, you can cultivate a sense of connection with the natural world and foster a more balanced and holistic way of thinking.
Are you interested in learning more about connecting your mindfulness practice to nature and healing? At Collaborative InSights we offer Ecotherapy and mindfulness sessions. Learn more about our holistic services and contact us for a free consultation!
