Whether you’re navigating chronic pain, seeking personal growth, breaking free from difficult patterns, or striving for a more fulfilling life, one essential practice can make all the difference: awareness. I often talk about it because, in my experience, awareness is the foundation of true healing and transformation.
As a yoga teacher, mind-body coach, and mindfulness teacher, I’m deeply committed to these practices. But there’s one thing I can’t go a day without—meditation, my favorite awareness practice! It’s my daily pill, sometimes taken more than once, and it has been transformative for me.
Why Awareness Matters
Awareness is about paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without judgment. It’s the first step in understanding what’s happening inside you and around you, which in turn helps you make choices that lead to healing, growth, and freedom from suffering. Without awareness, we’re often trapped in automatic patterns and reactions, disconnected from the present moment.
My Journey with Awareness
I’ve been meditating for over 10 years, and it has completely changed my life. Each day, as I sit in meditation, I feel my mind and body aligning more closely, gaining clarity, and uncovering new insights. The benefits of this practice have only grown stronger over time. However, I’d be lying if I said it’s always easy—it’s not. Building awareness is a journey, and like any journey, it has its challenges. But these challenges are where growth happens, and with consistent practice, the rewards are immense.
5 Simple Ways to Cultivate Awareness
You don’t need to overhaul your life to start building awareness. Here are five simple practices that have worked for me and can work for you too:
- Mindfulness Meditation
Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath. As thoughts and feelings arise, simply notice them without judgment. Small, consistent shifts in your attention can lead to profound changes over time. You might want to revisit the pocket meditation I shared in June to support this practice (If you are not in my mailing list make sure you join). - Mindful Movement
Practices like Tai Chi or Yoga are excellent for tuning into your body’s sensations, energy flow, and inner state. These practices help you connect more deeply with your body and cultivate awareness through movement. If you haven’t already, why not join a class and experience this for yourself? - Body Scanning
Regularly check in with your body throughout the day. Notice areas of tension or relaxation and consider what these sensations might be telling you. This practice deepens your understanding of the mind-body connection. If you’re new to this, try starting with a guided body scan meditation (from Jul’s Newsletter). - Journaling
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you see patterns that you might not notice otherwise. Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and awareness. I often end my journaling sessions with a simple gesture of kindness—placing a hand on my chest and offering myself warm, compassionate words. - Mindful Walking
Take a walk and focus on the sights, sounds, and sensations around you. When your mind inevitably wanders, gently bring your attention back to your surroundings. Even a 5-minute walk can make a difference in your day, helping you reconnect with the present moment.
Ready for More?
Awareness is the first step toward transformation. If you’re ready to explore this further, I invite you to dive deeper into this practice.
Remember, every journey starts with a single step of awareness. Whether you’re just beginning or deepening your practice, know that this journey is one of the most rewarding you can embark on.
If you’re interested in learning mindfulness meditation or want to deepen your practice, reach out or consider joining my 3-week Mindfulness course in Deddington. Online options are also available—just get in touch, and we can discuss what works best for you.
Take care, and keep growing.
Sara x
English 
Portuguese