Mastering the Art of 'How to Become More Mindful Day to Day' for a Calmer You

Unpacking the Essence of Mindfulness: More Than Just a Buzzword

Right, let's get real for a minute. Mindfulness. You've probably heard the word tossed around like a frisbee at a festival. But what is it, really? Is it just another wellness trend, or is there something more to it? I reckon it's the latter. It's about waking up to your life, noticing the small stuff, and, yeah, maybe finding a bit of calm in the chaos. But it's definitely not about becoming some zen master overnight. It's a journey, not a destination, and I'm right there with you, muddling through.

What Does Being Truly Present Even Mean?

Being present... it sounds simple, doesn't it? But how often are we actually here, right now? I'm talking about truly experiencing this moment, without getting dragged off by worries about tomorrow or regrets about yesterday. It's about noticing the feel of your feet on the floor, the taste of your tea, the sound of the birds outside. It's about acknowledging your thoughts and feelings without getting swept away by them. It's about being fully alive in this very second. Are you with me? Or are you already thinking about what you're having for dinner?

The Science Whispering Sweet Nothings: Why Your Brain Loves This

Okay, so it's not all just fluffy feelings. Turns out, there's some proper science behind this mindfulness lark. Studies have shown that regular mindfulness practise can actually change your brain. Seriously! It can increase grey matter in areas associated with learning, memory, and emotional regulation. It can also help to reduce activity in the amygdala, the brain's fear centre. So, basically, mindfulness improves decision-making and helps you to become less reactive and more resilient. Who knew a bit of quiet contemplation could be so powerful?

Beyond the Mat: Mindfulness in the Mundane

Forget the image of monks meditating in caves. Mindfulness isn't just for yoga studios and silent retreats. It's about bringing that sense of awareness into your everyday life. It's about washing the dishes with intention, walking to work with your senses open, listening to a friend without interrupting. It's about finding moments of presence in the midst of the mundane. It's about turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. And honestly, that's where the real magic happens. It's about weaving mindfulness into the fabric of your day, so it becomes a way of life, not just something you do for ten minutes in the morning.

Mindfulness isn't about fixing yourself or stopping your thoughts. It's about waking up to the inner workings of your mind, emotions, and body. It's about being present, without judgement, and integrating this awareness into your daily life. It's a journey of self-discovery, not a quick fix.

The Gentle Art of Beginning: Your First Steps Towards a Calmer You

Right, so you're thinking about this mindfulness thing, eh? Good on you. It's not some magic bullet, but it can be a proper game-changer. The hardest part? Starting. It's like dipping your toes into a cold sea – bracing at first, but then…bliss. Let's get you started, shall we?

Setting Your Compass: What Do You Truly Seek?

Before you even think about sitting cross-legged or downloading an app, have a proper think. What's driving you to this? Is it the constant anxiety? The feeling of being overwhelmed? Or just a general sense that there's got to be more to life than this endless to-do list? Knowing your 'why' is crucial. It's your compass when things get tough, and trust me, they will. It's easy to get distracted, so understanding your motivation is key.

Dipping Your Toes: Finding Your Mindful Technique

Right, so you've got your 'why'. Now, how do you actually do this mindfulness thing? Loads of ways, mate. There's the classic meditation, of course – sitting quietly, focusing on your breath. But that's not for everyone. Maybe you'd prefer a walking meditation, paying attention to each step. Or perhaps a body scan, noticing the sensations in your body. The key is to experiment. Try a few different things and see what clicks. Don't force it. It's like finding the right cuppa – you might have to try a few before you find your perfect brew.

The Power of a Tiny Habit: Starting Small, Dreaming Big

Okay, so you've found a technique you like. Now, the big question: how do you make it stick? The answer is simple: start small. Seriously small. Like, two minutes a day small. Don't try to become a Zen master overnight. That's a recipe for burnout. Instead, aim for consistency. A few minutes every day is far more effective than an hour once a week. Think of it like this:

• Two minutes of mindful breathing before your morning coffee.

• A quick body scan while you're brushing your teeth.

• Mindful eating during lunch – really tasting your food, instead of shovelling it down while scrolling through your phone.

The beauty of starting small is that it's less intimidating. It's easier to fit into your day, and it's less likely to feel like a chore. And as you start to experience the benefits – a little more calm, a little more focus – you'll naturally want to do more. It's a snowball effect. So, start small, be patient, and trust the process. You've got this.

Befriending Your Breath: A Simple Anchor in a Stormy World

Right, let's talk about something super simple, yet unbelievably powerful: your breath. I know, I know, it sounds a bit cliché, doesn't it? Like something a yoga instructor would say. But honestly, it's been a game-changer for me. Think of it as your own personal anchor in the middle of a storm. When everything else is chaotic, your breath is always there, a constant you can rely on. Have you ever really noticed it, though?

The Inhale, The Exhale: Your Constant Companion

Seriously, when was the last time you actually paid attention to your breath? Not just breathing to stay alive (which, fair play, is pretty important), but actually feeling the air moving in and out of your body? It's wild, isn't it? The inhale, cool and fresh, filling you up. The exhale, warm and releasing, letting go of what you don't need. It's a constant cycle, a rhythm that's always there, whether you're stressed about work, arguing with your partner, or just trying to get to sleep. It's like your own personal, portable safe space. You can even find resources online to learn more about mindfulness research and its benefits.

When the Mind Wanders: A Gentle Invitation Back

Okay, so you're trying to focus on your breath, and BAM! Your brain decides it's time to plan your grocery list, rehash that awkward conversation from yesterday, and worry about whether you left the oven on. Sound familiar? Don't beat yourself up about it. It happens to everyone. The trick isn't to stop your mind from wandering (good luck with that!), but to gently guide it back. Think of it like this: your mind is a puppy, and your breath is its lead. It's going to run off and sniff all sorts of interesting things, but your job is to gently tug on the lead and bring it back to your side. No judgement, no frustration, just a gentle, "Hey, come on back, little buddy." It's all about the returning.

The Unconditional Kindness of Returning

And that's the real magic of it, isn't it? The unconditional kindness of returning. You're not failing if your mind wanders a million times. You're not bad at meditating. You're just human. And every time you bring your attention back to your breath, you're practising self-compassion. You're saying, "It's okay, I'm here, I'm present, and I'm doing my best." And honestly, that's enough. It's about managing health-related anxiety by being kind to yourself. So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed, just take a moment. Close your eyes, feel your breath, and remember that you're doing just fine.

Mapping Your Inner Landscape: The Body Scan Adventure

From Toes to Crown: A Journey of Sensation

Right, so, the body scan. Sounds a bit sci-fi, doesn't it? Like something out of Star Trek. But honestly, it's just about paying attention. Properly paying attention. We're so used to rushing through life, ignoring all the little signals our bodies send us. This is your chance to actually listen. Start with your toes – are they warm, cold, tingly? Work your way up, bit by bit. Don't judge what you find, just notice it. It's like being a sensory detective, solving the mystery of what's going on inside you.

Releasing the Knots: Finding Freedom in Awareness

Ever notice how stress seems to settle in certain spots? Shoulders, jaw, lower back? The body scan is brilliant for spotting those tension hotspots. As you focus on each area, try to consciously relax it. Imagine the tension melting away, like butter on a warm crumpet. It might not happen instantly, and that's okay. The point is the awareness, the intention. You're not trying to force anything, just gently encouraging your body to let go. Think of it as a mini-massage from the inside out. I find that doing a mindfulness meditation really helps with this.

Beyond the Physical: Noticing the Emotional Echoes

Here's where it gets interesting. Our bodies and minds are so intertwined, it's ridiculous. Physical sensations often have emotional roots. A tight chest might be anxiety, a clenched jaw might be frustration. As you scan, ask yourself: what emotions are hanging out in this area? Don't be surprised if memories or feelings bubble up. Just acknowledge them, like clouds passing in the sky. You're not trying to analyse them, just observe. This is about building a deeper connection with yourself, understanding the language of your body and mind.

It's easy to get caught up in the physical aspect of a body scan, but remember, it's also a powerful tool for emotional exploration. By paying attention to the sensations in your body, you can gain valuable insights into your emotional state and learn to respond with greater compassion and understanding.

The Curious Gaze: Mindful Observation in Everyday Life

Right, so, mindful observation. Sounds a bit poncy, doesn't it? Like you need a monocle and a notebook to appreciate a cup of tea. But honestly, it's just about noticing stuff. Properly noticing. Noticing the way the light hits the wall, the sound of the kettle, the actual taste of that tea. When was the last time you really, truly looked at something without thinking about what you needed to do next? It's harder than it sounds, I promise you.

Seeing Anew: The Ordinary Becomes Extraordinary

We're so used to rushing through life, aren't we? Same route to work, same lunch, same telly in the evening. We stop seeing it all. But what if you looked at your usual walk as if you'd never seen it before? What if you really looked at the cracks in the pavement, the way the leaves are changing, the faces of the people you pass? Suddenly, the mundane becomes… well, less mundane. It's like finding a fiver in an old coat pocket – a little jolt of unexpected joy. It's about finding that calmer state in the everyday.

Engaging All Senses: A Feast for the Present Moment

Mindfulness isn't just about what you see; it's about what you hear, smell, taste, and touch too. Think about your morning shower. Do you just rush through it, or do you actually feel the water on your skin, smell the soap, hear the water running? It's a full-on sensory experience if you let it be. Try eating your next meal in silence, really focusing on the flavours and textures. It's amazing how much we miss when we're distracted. It's a proper feast for the senses, and it's all right there, waiting for you to notice.

The Art of Non-Judgement: Just Observing, Not Fixing

This is the tricky bit, isn't it? We're all so quick to judge. "That's a nice car," "That's an ugly building," "That's a weird-looking cloud." But what if you just… observed? Without labelling it, without deciding whether it's good or bad? Just seeing it for what it is. It's like watching a film – you can enjoy it without having to critique every single scene. It's about letting things be, and that, my friend, is surprisingly liberating. It's about mindful living, not mindful judging.

Navigating the Inner Chatter: When Thoughts Get Loud

Right, so we've been gently easing ourselves into this mindfulness thing, haven't we? We've befriended our breath, explored our bodies, and even tried to look at the world with fresh eyes. But what happens when the mind, that cheeky monkey, starts throwing bananas? What happens when the inner chatter gets so loud it feels like a stadium full of football fans arguing about a dodgy penalty?

Thoughts as Clouds: Passing Through the Sky of Your Mind

I reckon one of the most helpful things I've learned is to think of my thoughts as clouds. Seriously. They drift in, they might be fluffy and white, or dark and stormy, but they always drift on. They don't define the sky, and they don't define you. It's easy to get caught up in a thought, especially a negative one, and suddenly you're convinced it's the absolute truth. But it's just a thought, a mental event, like a cloud passing by. Can you just watch them go? It's like watching a movie, you're aware of the story, but you're not in the story. This is a great way to overcome negative self-talk.

The Observer's Seat: Watching Without Getting Swept Away

Imagine you're sitting in a comfy armchair, watching a river flow by. The river is your mind, and the thoughts are the leaves and twigs floating along. Your job isn't to jump in and try to rearrange the debris, or even to judge whether the leaves are pretty or ugly. Your job is simply to observe. To notice. To acknowledge. "Ah, there's a thought about that awkward thing I said at the party last week." Okay, noted. And then let it float on. This is what I call taking the observer's seat. It's about creating a little bit of distance between you and your thoughts, so you don't get swept away by them. It takes practise, mind you, but it's a game-changer.

Humour in the Chaos: Acknowledging the Mind's Quirks

Let's be honest, sometimes the mind is just plain ridiculous. It comes up with the most bizarre, irrational, and downright silly thoughts. And you know what? That's okay! Instead of getting frustrated or beating yourself up about it, try to find the humour in it. I mean, seriously, sometimes my brain comes up with stuff that's so outlandish, all I can do is laugh. Acknowledging the mind's quirks, its tendency to catastrophise or obsess over trivial things, can actually help to diffuse its power. It's like saying, "Okay, brain, I see you. You're being a bit of a drama queen today, but I'm not buying it." And then, you can gently guide your attention back to the present moment. It's all about finding that balance between taking your thoughts seriously enough to acknowledge them, but not so seriously that they control you.

Weaving Mindfulness into the Fabric of Your Day: No Extra Time Needed

Right, so you're thinking, "Mindfulness sounds great, but where am I supposed to find the time?" I get it. Life's already overflowing. But here's the secret: you don't need to find time, you need to infuse it. It's about bringing mindful awareness to the things you're already doing. Think of it as adding a little sprinkle of calm to your everyday chaos. Are you ready to integrate these new ways of seeing and being?

The Morning Ritual: A Mindful Start to Your Day

Forget the frantic rush. Before you even reach for your phone (resist!), take a minute. Just one minute. Sit on the edge of your bed, feel your feet on the floor, and notice your breath. What does the air feel like as it enters your lungs? What sounds can you hear? This tiny pause can set a completely different tone for your entire day. It's about starting with intention, not reaction. I find that even a few deep breaths can help me approach the day with a bit more ease.

Lunchtime Liberation: Eating with Intention

Lunch: often a rushed affair, shovelled down between emails. But what if it could be different? Instead of mindlessly eating, try focusing on your food. Really look at it. Notice the colours, the textures, the smells. Chew slowly, savouring each bite. Put down your cutlery between mouthfuls. It's not about becoming a food critic, it's about being present with the experience. You might be surprised at how much more satisfying your lunch becomes. It's a chance to practise mindfulness throughout the day.

The Evening Unwind: Preparing for Restful Presence

The evening can be a tricky time. We're often wired from the day, scrolling through social media, trying to switch off. But what if we created a mindful evening ritual? Maybe it's a warm bath, a cup of herbal tea, or simply reading a book (a real one, not on a screen!). The key is to create a space for calm before bed. I find that writing in a journal helps me to process the day and release any lingering tension. It's about mindful listening to your body and preparing for restful presence.

Think of your day as a tapestry. Each moment is a thread, and mindfulness is the colour that weaves it all together. You don't need to add more threads, just change the colour you're using.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Mindful dishwashing: Feel the warmth of the water, the texture of the soap, the weight of the plates.

• Mindful commuting: Instead of getting frustrated by traffic, notice the sky, the trees, the sounds around you.

• Mindful waiting: Whether you're in a queue or waiting for the kettle to boil, use the time to simply observe your breath.

The Wobbly Bits: Embracing Imperfection on Your Mindful Path

Mindfulness, like anything worthwhile, isn't about being perfect. It's about showing up, even when you feel like you're failing. In fact, it's especially about showing up then. We all have those days, right? When our minds are racing, our bodies are tense, and the idea of being present feels utterly impossible. That's when the real work begins.

The Puppy Analogy: Patience, Not Perfection

Think of your mind like a puppy. A really enthusiastic, easily distracted puppy. You wouldn't expect a puppy to instantly understand all the rules, would you? You'd be patient, kind, and consistent. It's the same with mindfulness. Your mind will wander, you'll get frustrated, and you'll probably want to give up sometimes. But that's okay. That's part of the process. Just gently guide your mind back, again and again, with the same patience you'd show a furry friend. It's about training your mind, not punishing it.

Celebrating the Tiny Triumphs: Every Moment Counts

It's easy to get caught up in the big picture and feel like you're not making progress. But mindfulness isn't about reaching some enlightened state. It's about the small moments. The times you notice your breath, the times you choose kindness over reaction, the times you simply acknowledge your thoughts without getting swept away. These are all victories. Celebrate them! Keep a mental note of these small wins. They add up. They really do. Even a few minutes of mindful movement can make a difference to your daily routine.

The Power of Self-Compassion: Your Kindest Companion

Let's be honest, we're often our own worst critics. We beat ourselves up for not being 'good enough', for not meditating 'correctly', for not being 'perfectly mindful'. But what if we treated ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we'd offer a friend? What if we acknowledged our struggles, validated our feelings, and offered ourselves words of encouragement? That's self-compassion, and it's a game-changer. It's about being your own best friend, especially when things get tough. It's about remembering that you're human, you're doing your best, and that's enough.

Mindfulness isn't about escaping the wobbly bits. It's about learning to dance with them. It's about embracing the imperfections, the challenges, and the messy reality of being human. And in that embrace, you might just find a little more peace, a little more joy, and a whole lot more self-compassion. And isn't that what we're all searching for, really?

Beyond the Self: Extending Mindfulness to Others

Okay, so we've been focusing a lot on you, right? Your breath, your body, your thoughts. But mindfulness doesn't stop at your own skin. It's like dropping a pebble in a pond – the ripples extend outwards. Have you ever thought about how your own calm can actually influence the people around you? It's pretty powerful stuff.

The Ripple Effect: Your Calm, Their Calm

Think about it: when you're stressed, you're probably not the easiest person to be around. But when you're grounded and present, that energy is contagious. Your calm can be a gift to others. It's like you're creating a little oasis of peace wherever you go. I've noticed that when I'm feeling particularly mindful, my partner seems to relax a bit more too. It's not magic, but it's definitely something.

Mindful Listening: Truly Hearing Another Soul

How often do we really listen to people? I mean, truly listen, without thinking about what we're going to say next, or judging what they're saying? Mindful listening is about being fully present with another person, giving them your undivided attention. It's about hearing not just the words, but the emotions behind them. It's a skill, and it takes practise, but it can transform your relationships. Try to practise mindful listening next time you're in a conversation.

Cultivating Loving-Kindness: A Warm Embrace for All

This one might sound a bit 'out there', but stick with me. Loving-kindness meditation is all about extending feelings of warmth and compassion, first to yourself, then to loved ones, then to neutral people, then to difficult people, and finally to all beings. It's about actively cultivating a sense of connection and empathy. It's not about suddenly loving everyone, but about wishing them well, wishing them happiness, wishing them peace. It's a powerful practise, and it can really shift your perspective. I find it helps me to remember that everyone is struggling with something, and that we're all in this together.

It's easy to get caught up in our own little worlds, but mindfulness reminds us that we're all interconnected. When we extend our awareness and compassion outwards, we not only benefit others, but we also enrich our own lives. It's a win-win, really.

The Digital Detox: Reclaiming Your Attention from the Screen

Right, let's talk about our screens. I know, I know, it's a tough one. They're our connection to the world, our entertainment, sometimes even our livelihood. But have you ever stopped to think about how much of your attention they're gobbling up? It's like they're these little black mirrors, reflecting everything but our own inner selves. I've been thinking a lot about how to build a healthy digital life lately, and it starts with taking back control.

Unplugging to Plug In: Connecting with Yourself

When was the last time you were truly, utterly bored? Not scrolling-through-your-phone bored, but staring-at-the-ceiling, mind-wandering bored? It's in those moments of unstructured time that the magic happens. That's when our brains get to wander, to connect dots, to come up with new ideas. Unplugging isn't about deprivation; it's about creating space for yourself. It's about rediscovering the joy of your own company, of your own thoughts. What hobbies have you been neglecting? What books have been gathering dust? What conversations have you been putting off? This is your chance to reconnect with the real world, and more importantly, with yourself.

Mindful Scrolling: When You Do Choose to Engage

Okay, let's be real. We're not going to ditch our phones completely (at least, not most of us). But what if we could use them more intentionally? What if, instead of mindlessly scrolling, we could approach our screens with a sense of awareness? Before you open that app, ask yourself: Why am I doing this? What am I hoping to get out of it? And how long do I want to spend? Set a timer, stick to your intention, and when the timer goes off, put the phone down. It's about being the master of your attention, not the other way around. It's about recognising the pull of the algorithm and choosing to resist it. It's about being present, even when you're online.

The Joy of Missing Out: Embracing Real-World Moments

JOMO. Have you heard of it? It's the antidote to FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). It's the joy of missing out on the endless stream of updates, notifications, and curated realities that flood our screens. It's about being present in the moment, appreciating the here and now, without constantly comparing yourself to others. It's about realising that life isn't a competition, and that you don't need to document every experience to make it real. It's about putting your phone away during dinner, looking your friend in the eye, and truly listening to what they have to say. It's about noticing the small details, the way the light philtres through the trees, the sound of laughter, the taste of your coffee. It's about embracing the beauty of the ordinary, and finding joy in the simple things. And honestly, isn't that what life's all about?

The Long Game: Sustaining Your Mindful Journey

So, you've started down the path of mindfulness. That's brilliant! But how do we keep this going? How do we stop it from becoming just another thing we tried for a week and then forgot about? It's all about making it a real part of your life, not just an add-on. Let's explore how to make mindfulness a lasting habit.

Consistency Over Intensity: Little and Often Wins the Race

Think of it like this: would you rather do one massive workout every month, or a little bit of exercise every day? The daily dose wins, right? It's the same with mindfulness. Five minutes of mindful breathing each morning is far more effective than an hour-long meditation session once a month. It's about weaving it into the fabric of your day. Can you find a mindful movement practise that fits into your routine?

Finding Your Tribe: Community in the Calm

Let's be honest, doing anything alone can be tough. Having people around you who 'get it' makes a huge difference. Find a local meditation group, an online forum, or even just a friend who's also interested in mindfulness. Sharing your experiences, struggles, and successes can be incredibly motivating. It's like having a support system for your inner world. I've found that talking about my own struggles with mindfulness meditation has helped me stay on track.

The Ever-Evolving Practise: A Lifelong Exploration

Mindfulness isn't a destination; it's a journey. There's no 'arriving' at perfect mindfulness. Your practise will change and evolve as you do. Some days it will feel easy, other days it will feel like a real struggle. And that's okay! The key is to keep showing up, to keep exploring, and to keep learning. It's a lifelong exploration of yourself and the world around you. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques, different approaches, and different ways of integrating mindfulness into your life. What works today might not work tomorrow, and that's perfectly fine. Embrace the change, embrace the challenge, and enjoy the ride.

Remember, the goal isn't to become a 'perfectly mindful' person. It's about cultivating a greater sense of awareness, compassion, and presence in your life. It's about learning to be kinder to yourself, to others, and to the world around you. And that's a journey worth taking, every single day.

Keeping your mindful journey going strong over time can be a bit tricky, can't it? It's like tending a garden; it needs regular care to truly flourish. If you're keen to discover more simple ways to keep your inner peace thriving, why not pop over to our website? We've got loads of helpful tips and resources waiting for you.

So, What Now?

Look, I get it. Life's a bit of a whirlwind, isn't it? One minute you're making a cuppa, the next you're wondering where the last three hours went. But that's exactly why this 'mindfulness' thing is so important. It's not about becoming some zen master who floats above it all. Nah. It's about finding those tiny pockets of calm in the everyday chaos. It's about noticing the warmth of your mug, the sound of the rain, or even just the feeling of your feet on the floor. These little moments, they add up. They really do. And before you know it, you're not just surviving the day; you're actually living it. So, give it a go. Start small. Be kind to yourself when your mind wanders off to what's for dinner. We're all just figuring it out, one mindful breath at a time. And trust me, a calmer you is a happier you, and who doesn't want a bit more of that?

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is about paying full attention to the present moment, without judging anything. It means noticing your thoughts, feelings, and what's happening around you right now, without getting caught up in it all. It's about being really aware of where you are and what you're doing.

How can I begin practising mindfulness if I'm a complete beginner?

You can start by just noticing your breath for a few minutes each day. Pay attention to how the air feels going in and out. Or, try really focusing on one everyday activity, like washing the dishes, noticing the water, the soap, and the sounds. The key is to start small and be kind to yourself.

My mind keeps wandering when I try to be mindful. Is that normal?

It's totally normal for your mind to wander! When it does, just gently bring your attention back to whatever you were focusing on, like your breath. Don't get annoyed with yourself; just think of it as a little mental exercise. Each time you bring your mind back, you're getting better at it.

What are the main benefits of being more mindful every day?

Mindfulness can help you feel less stressed and worried. By focusing on the present, you spend less time dwelling on past problems or future worries. It can also help you understand your feelings better and react more calmly to tough situations.

Do I need to set aside a lot of time for mindfulness practise?

You don't need extra time! You can weave mindfulness into your daily routine. Try mindful eating during lunch, really tasting your food. Or, when you're walking, notice the feeling of your feet on the ground. Even a few moments of mindful breathing can make a difference.

Is the goal of mindfulness to stop thinking altogether?

Mindfulness isn't about clearing your mind completely. It's about noticing your thoughts without getting swept away by them. Imagine your thoughts are clouds passing by in the sky; you can see them, but you don't have to jump on one and fly away with it.

Can mindfulness help me with my relationships with other people?

Absolutely! Being mindful can make you a better listener because you're fully present when someone is talking. It can also help you be more patient and understanding with others, leading to better relationships.

What if I find it hard to stick with mindfulness?

It's a journey, not a destination. Some days will be easier than others. The most important thing is to keep trying, even when it feels hard. Be patient and kind to yourself, just like you would be with a friend learning something new. Every little bit of practise helps!