Be Here Now: A Beginner’s Guide to Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment. It is about noticing what you feel, think, and see right now, without judgment. Instead of worrying about the past or the future, mindfulness helps you stay calm and focused on the “here and now.” Moving to a new country can bring challenging experiences, such as stress, homesickness, missing your country, your loved ones etc. Sometimes we have many worries- in this difficult state, mindfulness can be helpful.

What is Mindfulness Useful For?

Mindfulness can support your mental and physical health. Some benefits include:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety
  • Helping with better sleep
  • Improving concentration and memory
  • Supporting emotional balance
  • Giving a sense of calm in difficult times
  • Helping you feel more connected to yourself and others

For people who have experienced migration, change, or difficult situations, mindfulness can be a safe tool to manage strong emotions. Mindfulness is a useful tool, but if you feel overwhelmed, it is also okay to talk to a doctor, therapist, or support worker.

Facts & Myths About Mindfulness

Facts
  • Anyone can practise mindfulness – no special training is required.
  • You do not need a lot of time – even 5 minutes can help.
  • It is used by doctors, schools, and therapists around the world.
Myths
  • “I have to stop thinking completely.” – No, mindfulness is about noticing your thoughts, not blocking them.
  • “It takes years to learn.” – You can start simply and feel benefits quickly.
  • “It is only for religious people.” – Mindfulness can be practised by anyone, no matter their beliefs.

Different Techniques – Simple Ways to Practise

Here are some easy techniques you can try:

  • Breathing exercise: Sit quietly, breathe in slowly, breathe out slowly. Notice the air moving in and out.
  • Body scan: Pay attention to different parts of your body, from head to feet, noticing how they feel.
  • Mindful walking: Walk slowly and notice how your feet touch the ground, how your body moves.
  • Five senses exercise: Notice 5 things you can see, 4 things you can feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
  • Mindful listening: Choose a song or a sound, and listen carefully to every detail.
  • You do not need special equipment. You can practise at home, at work, or outside in nature.

Useful Resources

YouTube – search “mindfulness meditation” or “guided relaxation” for short videos:

Yoga+ mindfulness:

For kids:

Podcasts – many free podcasts and music playlists for relaxation:

Apps (free versions available): Insight Timer, Smiling Mind, Headspace (basic library).

  • Smiling Mind
  • UCLA Mindful
  • Healthy Minds Program
  • Mindfulness Coach
  • Instight Timer

Community groups – sometimes local libraries, community centres, or refugee support organisations offer free mindfulness or relaxation sessions.

Mindfulness is not about being perfect — it’s about being present. Start small, and be kind to yourself.

Where we are

Rua Carvalho Araújo 66-B
1900-140 Lisboa
Portugal

How to Get Here

  • Metro: Linha Verde (Green Line) - Intendente Station
  • Bus: 708, 730, 742, 794

Opening hours

Mon, Tue, Thu
10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30
Wednesday (Extended)
Until 19:30
Friday
Until 18:30
No appointment needed. Just walk in.

Contact info

+351 964 809 959