How to Prioritize Yourself with Simple Mindfulness Practices

When was the last time you took a few moments for yourself?

Back when I worked a grueling 9 to 5 (or, let’s be real: an 8 to 7), my days were so packed that the idea of mindfulness didn’t even (ahem) cross my mind. If it did, I would skip it because, honestly, it felt like a selfish luxury to do something for myself when so many other people—my family, my boss, my colleagues, my students—needed something from me.

Mindfulness? Who has time for that?

But, if I’m being honest, the real struggle wasn’t about time—it was about where I placed myself on my own list of priorities.

For years, I thought of my own needs last. There was always something more “important” to do, someone else to take care of, or another task demanding my attention. And even when I carved out a tiny moment for myself, mindfulness didn’t come close to the top of my list.

When I committed to trying a slow-living lifestyle, that began to change. I started thinking about mindfulness—not as a luxury, but as a necessity. I began exploring simple practices like journaling, meditating, and using tarot cards to connect with my intuition. (Sidebar: It was the game Playne that finally got me into meditation. We can thank Steam for that recommendation.)

I’ll be real: At first, I hated it. Taking small moments for myself—paying attention to my breathing, my surroundings, my emotions, and my physical sensations—was hugely uncomfortable. I wasn’t used to tuning into my own needs. And when I started paying attention, I couldn’t ignore how much I had been neglecting myself.

Sometimes, though, the best things start out a bit uncomfortable. As I practiced mindfulness, things began opening up for me. I started thinking more clearly, sleeping better, and my nervous system began to calm down after years of burnout and hustle.

And as I incorporated these small, simple mindfulness practices into my days, something shifted. I realized how much calmer, more centered, and yes, more grateful I felt.

So consider this your sign to listen to yourself. Try something new. Give mindfulness a shot. You might be surprised by what you find. Because even on your busiest days, you can create pockets of calm that help you reset, refocus, and reconnect.

Not sure where to begin? Here are five simple mindfulness practices you can try, even with just a few seconds a day.

1. The One-Minute Breather

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take one minute to pause and focus on your breath. Close your eyes, inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat this a few times.

This practice doesn’t just calm your mind—it sends a signal to your nervous system that it’s safe to slow down, even if just for a moment.

Pro Tip: Pair this with a habit you already do, like waiting for your coffee to brew or sitting in your car before heading to your next destination.

2. Mindful Sips

Got a cup of coffee, tea, or even water nearby? Use it as a mindfulness tool. Instead of drinking mindlessly while you work or scroll, take a moment to focus on the sensations—the warmth of the cup, the taste, the aroma.

This simple shift helps ground you in the present moment and gives your mind a mini-break from racing thoughts.

3. The Three-Second Check-In

Before diving into your next task, pause for three seconds to check in with yourself. Ask: How do I feel right now? What do I need in this moment?

You don’t have to act on the answers immediately, but simply acknowledging your feelings can create space for self-awareness and kindness, even on a hectic day.

4. Walk Without a Destination

If you’re moving between tasks or places, turn it into a mindful walk. Slow your pace slightly and focus on the sensation of your feet hitting the ground, the rhythm of your steps, or the sounds around you.

Even a short, intentional walk—from your desk to the kitchen or your car to the door—can help you shift gears and reset.

5. Gratitude in the Moment

When you feel your stress rising, take a few seconds to notice something you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as the sunlight streaming through the window, a text from a friend, or the feeling of your favorite sweater.

Practicing gratitude doesn’t just boost your mood—it trains your brain to notice the good, even during challenging moments.

Mindfulness That Fits Your Life

The beauty of mindfulness is that it doesn’t require perfection or hours of free time. It’s about weaving tiny moments of awareness into the rhythm of your day.

Start small—choose one practice from this list and try it today. You might be surprised at how much calmer and more grounded you feel, even on your busiest days.

Bonus Resource: Want more tools to help you slow down and stay present? Download my free 7-Day Slow-Living Challenge for simple, actionable steps to create calm and balance in your life.