Mindfulness

The definition of mindfulness is: being present and engaged in the moment, rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future. This was a word I heard a lot about two years after the accident. I didn't know what it meant in terms of my recovery but my neurologist recommended mindfulness classes very strongly. We had just finished a discussion about next steps in my recovery and he felt this would help me with accepting the now instead of always yearning for the future where I would be "normal" again.

I found a class through the University of Pennsylvania taught by a doctor who had experience in the field for many years. The class was a turning point for me. I didn't see results immediately which was disappointing but eventually I started feeling more at peace with myself...more looking forward to my day...less wrapped up in thoughts of future possibilities. That was the biggest win I took away from the class. Being able to look forward to whatever the day held for me was wonderful. I could enjoy not just my cup of coffee but everything else as well.