When I’m stressed or anxious about something, like before a test or when I have to wait for a long time in a long line-up at the store, remembering “mindful” moments helps me to relax.

Mindfulness is the practice of being in the present moment, allowing yourself to close off distractions, making no judgments, immersing yourself “in the now." While Buddhists have mastered this practice, we can develop this habit as part of our daily lives to help us relax, overcome frustrations, and really appreciate the world around us.

While true mindfulness means focusing on all things that the present moment offers, a good way to start is to concentrate on the good things that our senses bring to us.

Here are some things that “mindfulness” has helped bring joy to my heart and relieve stress.

The feeling of hands running through my hair; the smell of freshly cut grass on a summer day; the warmth of a winter fire; the sound of waves hitting the shore; piping hot tea and a good book; the harmonizing sound of the crickets; a clear night sky.

My mother’s voice whisking me to sleep; a nice breeze on a hot day; riding my bike through the spring air; late night tunes; soaking deep in a bath after a long day; a warm fuzzy blanket; the taste of a gooey cookie melting in my mouth.

The sweet scent of roses; a child’s tight long hug; the rising sun; the setting sun; contagious laughter; a fresh brewed cup of coffee; the rocking of a sailboat; silk against my skin; snowflakes on my eyelashes; the purr of a kitten curled up next to me.

Being mindful has helped me to gain better emotional balance in my life, peace of mind, and to appreciate all the beauty that surrounds me. These are the few every day little things that are so marvelous that I never truly took the time to notice. The smallest things can be the most serene and tranquil things in existence.

Try it. Find the details in the present moment. Relax. Enjoy. Appreciate.