Finding Balance and Authenticity: The Power of Mindful Practice
In a fast-paced world filled with distractions and demands, finding balance and authenticity has become a paramount pursuit for many individuals seeking a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. The answer to this quest lies within the transformative practice of mindfulness. Mary Higgs, a respected writer, online educator, speaker, and empowerment coach, delves into this topic in her enlightening book, “Mindful Practice: A Beginner’s Guide To Vibrant Living.” With her personal journey as a backdrop, Higgs unveils the profound power of mindful practice in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, rediscover their inner wisdom, and live authentically.
Higgs’ own path to mindfulness and vibrant living was not an easy one. At the age of 19, she survived a car accident that left her with partial paralysis and limited mobility. As an extroverted athlete deeply invested in dance, sports, and cheerleading, this sudden shift in circumstances presented a daunting challenge. The physical and emotional trauma forced her to confront the need for a new way of approaching life. Little did she know that this difficult journey would become the impetus for her life’s work.
In “Mindful Practice,” Higgs shares her insights and experiences accumulated over more than 40 years of intense self-reflection and exploration. She emphasizes that the practice of mindfulness is not limited to a select few, but rather, it is accessible and potentially life-changing for anyone willing to embark on the journey. Through her book, she invites readers to embrace the beginner’s mindset and discover the transformative potential that lies within.
At the heart of mindful practice is the cultivation of self-awareness and the ability to tap into one’s inner wisdom. Higgs, a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 200), Opening Yoga Instructor (OYI), and certified Yoga for All and Accessible Yoga Teacher, emphasizes that mindfulness is not solely about sitting in meditation or adopting a specific posture. It is a holistic approach to life that encompasses various techniques, including adaptive chair yoga and deep, exploratory journal writing.
One of the key messages conveyed throughout the book is that transformation comes from within. Higgs emphasizes that each individual possesses a unique truth, a golden nugget waiting to be discovered. The mindful practice serves as the gateway to unlocking this truth and living in alignment with one’s authentic self. Through a combination of self-reflection, acceptance, and exploration, individuals can reconnect with their passions, values, and desires, paving the way for a more fulfilling and purpose-driven existence.
While mindful practice may seem daunting to those who have never been exposed to it, Higgs assures readers that it is a journey anyone can undertake, regardless of their ability, background, or level of personal growth knowledge. The practices and techniques presented in “Mindful Practice” are designed to be accessible and practical, empowering individuals to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives. Whether it’s reducing stress, regaining focus, or cultivating clarity, these practices provide the tools needed to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life.
The book also offers valuable resources to support readers’ journey toward balance and authenticity. Higgs recommends the works of Viktor Frankl and Michael A. Singer as additional sources of inspiration and guidance. Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning” illustrates the power of choice and finding hope even in the most challenging circumstances. Singer’s “The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself” explores the nature of the mind and the importance of becoming the observer of our thoughts. These resources further enhance the transformative potential of “Mindful Practice” and provide readers with additional perspectives and insights.
As individuals embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, Higgs reminds them that true growth is a lifelong process. There are no quick fixes or instant solutions. It requires commitment, courage, and an unwavering belief in oneself. Through mindful practice, individuals can cultivate the inner resources needed to face life’s ups and downs with resilience and authenticity.
In conclusion, “Mindful Practice: A Beginner’s Guide To Vibrant Living” by Mary Higgs offers a roadmap to finding balance, reclaiming authenticity, and living a more fulfilling life. Higgs’s personal journey and extensive experience as a writer, educator, and empowerment coach infuse the book with wisdom, compassion, and practicality. By embracing the power of mindfulness and exploring their inner wisdom, readers can embark on a transformative journey toward vibrant living. As Higgs aptly states, “Growth is within reach when we trust ourselves. You already know the way.”
