Mindfulness is the ability to be fully aware where you stand, what’s happening at this moment and what you’re doing. It also means that you know how to give your mind peace and not overreact or get overwhelmed by things that are happening around you. There is growing research that shows how you can train your brain to be mindful and that by doing this, you are remodeling the physical structure of your brain.

When practicing mindfulness, you will notice that it improves your well-being, your physical health, your mental health and that it has many more benefits. Mindfulness can also help you in learning a new language. Here are 6 tips for mindful language learning.

1.Turn it off

We live in a world where people are always online. Instead of checking your email, facebook, instagram and other social media, turn off your devices so you’re not tempted by all the distractions. Multitasking is sometimes a good thing, it can be very efficient, but when you want to learn a new language, it is important that that’s your main focus. One thing at a time. 

2. Stretch it out

By stretching you give your body the time to relax. Heading to university to take a language test? Take a few minutes before you leave to stretch out. Stretching releases anxiety and will result in a better flow before you start studying. Just swinging your arms or touching your feet will give you a more rested feeling.

3. Self-compassion

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Everyone trips and everyone falls. We can only learn from our mistakes. Because even mistakes mean that you’re trying. Why do you think that pencils have erasers?

4. Let go of mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes in life but that doesn’t mean you have to pay for them for the rest of your life. Notice them and learn from them. Mistakes are painful when they happen, but years later a collection of mistakes is what they call experience.

5. Be more self-aware

Being self-aware consists of being aware of the progress that you are making, without being judgmental or comparing yourself with other learners.

6. Notice a wandering mind

When you notice that your mind keeps wondering and acknowledging distracting thoughts. It’s up to you to act upon that thought and either become distracted or focused

References:

[1] Marlatt, G.,& Kristeller, J.L. (1999). Mindfulness and Meditation. Miller (Ed.), Integrating spirituality

into treatment (pp. 67–84). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

https://languagelearnersjournal.com/2017/05/19/mindful-language-learning/