Mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment, and while practices like meditation and deep breathing are popular, they’re not the only way to enjoy mindfulness. Here are eight unique, enjoyable ways to practice mindfulness without feeling bored. These activities will help you tune into the moment, relax, and reconnect with yourself—while keeping things fun!
1. Coloring for Calmness
Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore! Coloring books for adults have gained popularity as a relaxing, mindful activity. Focusing on choosing colors and staying within the lines helps direct your attention to the present, leaving you little room to dwell on past worries or future to-do lists. Plus, coloring allows you to express your creativity, making it both relaxing and fun.
How to Try It: Get an adult coloring book or print some free coloring pages online. Use colored pencils, crayons, or markers—whatever brings you joy. Turn on some calming music, find a quiet spot, and let your inner artist flow.
2. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Exploring nature is a wonderful way to be mindful, but adding a scavenger hunt element makes it even more engaging! Make a list of natural items to find, like a uniquely shaped leaf, a bird in flight, or a smooth stone. This activity keeps you focused on observing the environment, helping you stay fully present in the moment.
How to Try It: Make a short list of things to find in nature, or download a nature scavenger hunt printable. Head out to a local park or hiking trail, take your time looking for each item, and take in the sights, sounds, and scents around you.
3. Mindful Cooking
Cooking can be a sensory experience if you allow yourself to focus on each step rather than rushing through the process. Mindful cooking means paying attention to each ingredient, noticing textures, and savoring smells. It’s a creative way to bring mindfulness into your routine—and you get to enjoy a delicious reward at the end!
How to Try It: Pick a recipe and cook it without distractions. Smell each ingredient, listen to the sounds of chopping or stirring, and enjoy the colors and textures as you prepare your meal. When it’s time to eat, savor each bite without rushing.
4. Play with Pets
Pets are excellent mindfulness companions! Whether you’re playing fetch with a dog, cuddling a cat, or watching fish swim, spending time with animals is a great way to stay present. Pets live in the moment, and they can teach us to do the same. Playing or even just observing their behavior helps shift your focus to something outside yourself.
How to Try It: Spend 5–10 minutes just playing with or observing your pet. Watch them closely—their reactions, movements, and sounds. If you don’t have a pet, you can still find animal live streams online or visit a local shelter or pet-friendly café.
5. Engage in a “Mindful Listening” Music Session
Instead of playing music in the background while you work or clean, try listening to a song or piece of music with full attention. Notice each instrument, the lyrics, and the shifts in tempo. This can be a refreshing break, allowing you to enjoy the details of the music you might otherwise miss.
How to Try It: Choose a favorite song or playlist. Sit down, close your eyes, and focus solely on the sounds. Pay attention to each beat, instrument, and melody, noticing how the music makes you feel.
6. Try a Sensory Walk
A sensory walk is similar to a regular walk, but with an extra focus on each of your senses. As you walk, notice what you can see, hear, smell, feel, and maybe even taste. This exercise brings you into the moment and helps you appreciate the small details around you.
How to Try It: Take a 10-minute walk, either in nature or around your neighborhood. Focus on each sense for a couple of minutes—listen to the birds or traffic, feel the texture of leaves, or notice the temperature on your skin. Go slowly and let yourself experience the present without rushing.
7. Mindful Photography
Mindful photography is about taking photos that capture your surroundings in detail. By looking for interesting perspectives or beautiful details, you train yourself to focus on the here and now. Plus, it’s a creative way to appreciate the beauty around you, whether in nature or everyday settings.
How to Try It: Take a walk with your phone or camera and look for interesting subjects to photograph. Try capturing small details like a dewdrop on a leaf, the texture of a tree’s bark, or the play of light and shadows. There’s no need for perfect photos—the goal is to observe and enjoy.
8. Mindful Journaling with a Twist
Mindful journaling isn’t about writing essays; it’s about capturing moments, emotions, or random thoughts with full attention. Try writing about how your day is going, how you’re feeling, or simply what’s happening around you at that moment. This form of reflection keeps you grounded and aware of your current state.
How to Try It: Set a timer for five minutes and write whatever comes to mind. Describe your surroundings, your thoughts, or even random observations without editing or judging yourself. Let it be a stream of consciousness that keeps you connected to the present.
Final Thoughts
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be a chore or involve sitting still for hours. These fun activities make mindfulness feel accessible, enjoyable, and engaging, helping you stay present while adding some variety to your day. By practicing mindfulness in ways that appeal to your interests, you can make it a natural and positive part of your daily routine.
