What does it mean to live consciously?

What does it mean to live consciously?
It’s one of our core pillars, but what does living consciously actually mean?

In essence, it's about making deliberate choices, embracing mindfulness, and matching your actions with your values. It is not about time, but attention as your most valuable resource. Research shows that training your attention to focus on the present moment leads to some extraordinary benefits: increased happiness, decreased stress, improved sleep, stronger immune functioning, and greater satisfaction with life.

Here are four simple ways to live more consciously, so you can make every moment count.

Start with mindfulness: it's a powerful tool. Take time to savour the small moments that weave the fabric of your life. When you eat, put away distractions and focus on each bite. Savour the flavours and textures. You'll find more joy in your meals, and surprisingly, you'll feel full faster. (Here's our 101 guide on how to be more mindful.)

Turn the ordinary into extraordinary: Instead of rushing through your day, see each task as an opportunity to discover joy or excitement. Be present in your surroundings. As you walk to the letterbox, or as you observe your kids and chat in the car - life becomes more beautiful when you find the beauty in the everyday.

Live with intention: What feels right and what feels wrong? Pair it back. Align your decisions with your personal values, and you'll find fulfilment and authenticity. Surround yourself with people, practices, and activities that resonate with these values. Take a moment to consider what doesn't align and make adjustments.

Be mindful of your impact: Make choices that benefit those around you, your community, and the planet. It's the little things that count, like offering a smile to a stranger or complimenting their outfit. Make better choices for the planet by shopping smarter, using your own shopping bags, bringing a Keep Cup to your local coffee shop, and banning cling film from your household.

YOUR REMINDER - 

If you see some rubbish on your morning walk or daily commute, pick it up and put it in the bin. Yes, it's frustrating that others didn’t take the same care, but taking two minutes to do your bit will make a positive impact on the planet and your community.

We hope these tips will help you to create your own Daily Rituals for self care. Need more inspiration? Follow @embodyme_daily or sign up The Weekly for more on curating precious moments for you each week.