Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1212276
hvparent.com n Hudson Valley Parent 11 health & llness Make time for mindfulness With all the multi-tasking it takes to run a household and raise kids, it's easy for moms to feel scattered and spread thin, or like they're are running on autopilot. Mindfulness practice helps women focus and show up more fully for what is right in front of them, at any given moment. Over the past 40 years, scientific research has proven mindfulness practice - the art of bringing nonjudgmental attention to the present moment by becoming aware of your breath, sensations in your body, thoughts, and emotions - to be extremely beneficial for overall well-being. Meditation or mindfulness practice can be as simple as remembering to take a mindful breath a few times a day. Or slowing down when eating - savoring the smell, flavors, and textures of food. And remember, when you do get frazzled you can always start again. Each moment is a new opportu- nity to come back and practice again. Becoming aware of your emotions, without judging yourself for them, is also an act of compassion and may help you empathize with others and extend your compassion to them. You are also modeling behaviors that can be learned and reciprocated. Chrissa J. Santoro, Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck, NY, eomega.org Mindfulness helps women focus at any given moment. Photo: Omega Insti- tute for Holistic Studies, Rhinebeck, NY. Earth Angels Veterinary Hospital 44 Saint Nicholas Rd. Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 845-227-7297; earthangelsvet.com Earth Angels Veterinary Hospital provides the best integrative medicine available for a holistic approach to your pet's health care. Pet boarding now available, just in time for summer. Windsor Dental Center 375 Windsor Highway, Ste. 400 New Windsor, NY 12553 845-565-6677; windsordental.com Windsor Dental Center offers comprehensive dental care all in one office, performed by our highly trained specialists. When you visit, your smile and comfort are our top priority.