Let’s think about some mindful living strategies that help us be our best selves. I’d like to focus on small, meaningful changes that foster joy and balance. Who is with me?
Ten mindful living strategies:
1. Learn new things.
This has always been important to me. It was especially important when I was still teaching, because a focus on learning seems key for a teacher. Even now, I enjoy figuring out new things. That’s the main motivation behind my blog, after all. I tackled all of this as a way of challenging myself. I have learned so much! Working on this goal might look like seeking out books in new genres, tackling a new bit of technology, or beginning a new hobby. Anything to stretch ourselves. Learning fosters a sense of accomplishment, which feeds into a mindfulness mindset. Hobbies I’ve considered trying are lettering and coloring. What about you?
2. Reach out to a friend each week.
We could take a minute to call, email, or send a card to a friend we haven’t seen for a while. Maybe there’s a friend who’s struggling. While we’re at it, wouldn’t it be great also to look for opportunities to cultivate new friendships? It’s hard to make friends as adults, but if we’re intentional I bet we can do it. I tend to hesitate to reach out because I assume the other person is busy and uninterested. But what’s the worst that can happen? It can be as easy as, “Are you interested in trying the new coffee shop?” or “Have you ever walked on the pathway by the river?” Maybe they’re hoping for a chance to connect as well. Making the effort to strengthen and create friendships gives us a positive focus.
3. Cultivate gratitude.
Starting a gratitude journal is a powerful practice for fostering positivity. How about a simple method: write down three things we’re grateful for every day. It doesn’t need to be long; even the smallest moments count. This is a goal that can easily be worked into daily routines, like first thing in the morning or before bed. Gratitude has some great benefits, like improved mood, reduced stress, and better rest.
4. Be present.
We all fight distractions at one time or another. It’s easy to get caught up in work issues or financial concerns and have them running in the back of our mind even when we’re doing something else. How do we combat this? When we are about to begin an outing or spend time with a friend or family member, perhaps we can take a moment to reset our minds. Take a few deep breaths. Make an effort to look around us. Listen carefully. Make eye contact. Be in the moment.
5. Practice contemplative prayer.
Options include lectio divina, prayer beads, or breath prayer, among others. I have found these prayer practices to be very calming and uplifting. They help me shift my focus when there’s a need to do so. They turn my thoughts toward God and scripture. These quiet times also slow me down and offer a brief rest.
6. Try one new recipe each week.
The best New Year’s resolution I ever made was one to try a new recipe each week–not that all of the recipes were successes! It’s a habit I’ve continued, and shifting the focus to a pescatarian or plant-based recipe would be even better. This can improve our overall health and energy levels. Some recipes we’ve enjoyed:
- fabulous salmon quinoa protein bowls,
- tasty tortilla soup,
- turmeric chicken and rice,
- tofu lasagna,
- hot honey mustard chicken bowls (delicious with tofu!),
- simple crab cakes, and
- creamy vegetable pot pie.
Focus on seasonal ingredients and experiment with global cuisines for inspiration.
7. Prioritize exercise and being outside.
Exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym for hours. Something as simple as a short walk can improve mood, energy, and health. It can also help us clear our minds. I like to do a brisk walk on my treadmill most mornings for about 45 minutes. Roughly once a week I walk on a path alongside the river with a good friend. Walking with a friend provides accountability and fellowship. Other ideas to help you stick with it include listening to an audiobook, a favorite podcast, or a music playlist. Another great tool for both exercise and mindfulness is yoga. I would love to develop that interest.
I tend to be a homebody, so I’m making more of an effort to spend time outdoors. When the weather is nice, I enjoy sitting out on our deck and listening to the birds. I’d love to hear your ideas for incorporating more time outdoors into your routine.
8. Complete one small household task each day.
I find that completing one small task each day gives me a sense of accomplishment. Even better, when I take time to do a quick tidy-up before bed it helps me greet the new day in a better frame of mind. I like to make sure that the dishes we’ve used are all in the dishwasher or rinsed and in the sink, wipe down countertops, pick up items that have migrated between rooms during the day, and put away clean laundry. I’ve put together simple weekly and monthly schedules to help me organize bigger tasks. Do you do something similar?
9. Create a consistent sleep routine.
Sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time daily, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock. I also limit caffeine; typically I have one cup of tea early in the afternoon. In fact, as I’ve aged, I have found that I sleep better if I don’t eat much at all after about 7pm. Additionally, it’s my understanding that avoiding screens an hour before bed can make a big difference because they emit blue light which can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. I struggle in this area because I spend so much time reading on my kindle. Perhaps I could spend that last hour before bed reading a physical book, stretching, journaling, or talking with friends or family.
10. Schedule regular check-ins for mental and physical health.
Sometimes, we get so caught up in the busyness of life that we forget to check in with ourselves. It’s a good idea to schedule regular mental and physical health check-ins (monthly or quarterly). These can be as simple as a few minutes of reflection or journaling. During our check-ins, we can assess how we’re feeling. Taking care of ourselves proactively can make a huge difference. Questions to consider:
- How is my energy level?
- How have I been feeling emotionally?
- What habits or goals need to be adjusted?
This practice helps ensure that we’re on the right track, and it can help prevent burnout. In addition, be sure to schedule yearly check-ups with your doctor and consider seeing a therapist or counselor for mental health support.
Do any of these mindful living strategies resonate with you? What small change might you make to promote better balance in your life?
I’m amazed by how many of these goals seem to interconnect. Working on one helps with another.
Remember that it’s perfectly fine to start small.
The journey to better health and habits doesn’t happen overnight. By starting small and focusing on what truly matters, you can create a ripple effect of positive change. Let’s be gentle with ourselves and celebrate every step forward—no matter how small.
Shoot for consistency.
Building healthy habits isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. Whether you start with one goal or a handful, the key is to take it one day at a time. As you reflect on your progress, you might be surprised by how much you’ve grown.
Let me know if you come up with similar mindful living strategies. We can encourage each other!

Other posts you may like:
- book club list: a year of excellent reading
- praying for your community: a prayer “walk” around town
- homemade spiced cocoa mix
- homemade chai: spicy indulgence
- An American Marriage by Tayari Jones: book club discussion
Fondly,
Crysti

Thank you for sharing these mindful living strategies. I especially appreciate the free printable reminder list. All excellent ideas for refreshing and resetting!
Thanks, Lisa! Have a wonderful day. 🙂
We live in a strange times and mindful living is definitely something we all should focus on. All of these 10 strategies can drastically change the quality of our lived. Thank you for sharing them!
Thanks, Antonia! I’m glad you like them.
These 10 simple mindful living strategies are wonderful ideas. I’ve been trying to prioritize getting outside and getting some exercise in. I always feel so much better mentally and physically with some time in nature, fresh air, and a walk.
Same, Debbie, same!
Your mindful living strategies really connect with me. Particularly number 8. Sometimes I get overwhelmed with housework but I’ve learned to take it one task at a time, per day.
Thanks, Gina! I’m so glad to hear it!
These mindful living strategies are practical in my opinion. So very helpful!
Thanks so much, Hari! I appreciate it!