Being conscious is being aware of yourself and everything around you. You are in control of your actions and your thoughts. You can change from one instance to another and be aware of doing so.
Consciousness is a state that is always present. So even if you are occupied with something, consciously, you are aware of what is going on around you.
To be mindful is when you train your mind to concentrate on the present. You stop yourself from thinking about the future or the past. Instead, all your attention is focused on the present moment.
You consider only one task at a time and immerse yourself in it completely. Every detail is noted and absorbed. You commit yourself to be mindful of the moment.
What Are The Differences?
Being conscious and mindful is associated with the functioning of the mind. So they both share a similar perspective. But they also have distinct differences.There are three main elements of being conscious. They are :
- The mind
- The intellect
- Awareness of the surroundings
You are consciously aware of doing tasks while at the same time thinking of other matters. Your mind is in a constant state of motion. The three elements of mindfulness are:
- Presence
- Awareness
- Responsibility
You calm your mind to concentrate on what is happening right now. You make yourself wholly present at the moment. You free yourself from all distractions.
Which One Is More Common?
Being conscious is most common. It is a natural state of mind to be aware of everything. It is the presence of the mind in any situation.
Consciousness is a core part of yourself. You can engage in your daily activities without having to think too much about them. Consciousness is most often involved with your senses.
You sense all that is around you, and your mind acts accordingly. You make instantaneous decisions as your mind is already distracted by other emotions.
Why Are Both Of These Good For You?
Being conscious is good since it allows you to experience a spectrum of emotions. You can engage your mind, your body, and your senses to be aware of everything that is going on around you.
It also allows you to interact with various scenarios while already occupied. You are capable of consciously making decisions and actively carrying them out. You make use of all your senses which keeps your mind alert.
When you are mindful, you are grounding yourself in the current moment. You focus on what is happening right now and live fully in the moment. As a result, your mind is quiet, and you have a sense of well-being.
How Can You Exercise by Being Conscious And Mindful?
To be conscious and mindful, you must first calm your mind. You must learn to let go of all negativity and all distractions from your mind. Your mind needs to be trained to be still and focused.
Meditating can help you be mindful and increase your consciousness level. You can also practice deep breathing to help clear your mind and improve your concentration.
You must always try to be aware of your surroundings. This will help you to tune into your senses and elevate your mindfulness. You could also make it a habit of consciously being attentive in your daily activities.
Final Thoughts on Conscious Vs Mindful
If you can be conscious and mindful, then you can have a fulfilling and wholesome life. Living in the present moment and being aware of what you are experiencing will make you appreciate your life.
The more conscious and mindful you become, you will notice changes in how you view yourself and your surroundings. You will be grateful for each day and content with what you have. This will also allow you to have meaningful relationships with your loved ones.