Mindfulness in our daily lives: What is considered an act of mindfulness?

What is considered an act of mindfulness? How do we know if we are practicing mindfulness? We may already be taking those small steps toward practicing mindfulness without even realizing it. 

We know that the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) practiced mindfulness. Not only did he constantly remember God (dhikr) throughout his day, he took time to self-reflect and meditate, oftentimes in seclusion. Meditation and reflection are two of the most common practices of mindfulness. But when we pray, it is a mindful movement.  Making dua is a mindful thought and action. Eating, walking, listening, and breathing can all become mindful actions if done thoughtfully, intentionally, and with the remembrance of God. If we take inventory of our daily actions, we can make a more conscious effort to perform them more mindfully. While we consider practicing mindfulness in our daily lives, remember that having the right intentions (niyyah) can transform any action into an act of worship (ibadah) as well, if done with sincerity (ikhlas).

Here are just some acts of Mindfulness:

• Mindful remembrance of God and His Attributes

• Mindful prayers

• Mindful movement

• Mindful breathing

• Mindful eating

• Mindful listening

• Mindful conversations

• Mindful walking

• Mindful journaling

• Mindful reflection

• Mindful meditation

• Mindful exercising

• Mindful reading

• Mindful writing

Focusing our attention on our breathing, a prayer, a specific thought, or specific movement, can be considered mindful. Focus without judgment of ourselves and concentrating on one action or thought at a time can be considered a mindful practice.

Implementing mindful practices throughout our day can lead to being more intentional and mindful in every aspect of our life. 

There is more to come: Consider following Mindful Muslim Life for more information on how we can implement some of these acts of Mindfulness.