Mindfulness Through Senses: A VA-Backed Approach to Reducing Stress

The **US Department of Veterans Affairs** has introduced a mindfulness exercise, **Live Whole Health #184**, which utilizes the senses to promote mindfulness and reduce stress. This practice, led by **Hang Ruan**, a senior social worker with **VA Puget Sound Health Care System**, encourages individuals to focus on the present moment by paying attention to their senses. By doing so, it helps to calm the mind and reduce reactivity to stress. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals with **Severe PTSD**, as it provides a simple yet effective way to manage stress and promote relaxation. For more information on mindfulness and its benefits, visit [[mindfulness|Mindfulness]] or [[ptsd|PTSD]].

• The VA has introduced a mindfulness exercise called Live Whole Health #184 to promote mental health and well-being
• The exercise is led by Hang Ruan, a senior social worker with VA Puget Sound Health Care System
• The exercise utilizes the senses to promote mindfulness and reduce stress
• The exercise is designed to be brief and accessible, making it an excellent introduction to mindfulness practices
• The VA has made this resource available to help individuals prioritize their mental health and well-being

The **VA**'s introduction of this mindfulness exercise is a notable effort to promote mental health and well-being. While the effectiveness of this approach may vary from person to person, it is a valuable resource for those seeking to manage stress and promote relaxation. As with any mindfulness practice, it is essential to approach this exercise with an open mind and a willingness to explore its benefits. For more information on mindfulness practices, visit [[mindfulness-practices|Mindfulness Practices]]. To learn more about the VA's initiatives, explore [[veterans-affairs-initiatives|Veterans Affairs Initiatives]].

This mindfulness exercise is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to manage stress and promote relaxation. By leveraging the senses, it provides a simple yet effective way to calm the mind and reduce reactivity to stress. As noted by **Hang Ruan**, this practice can be particularly beneficial for individuals with **Severe PTSD**. For more information on the benefits of mindfulness, visit [[mindfulness-benefits|Mindfulness Benefits]]. To explore related topics, check out [[mental-health|Mental Health]] and [[wellness|Wellness]].

Some individuals may find it challenging to quiet their minds and focus on the present moment, which could limit the effectiveness of this exercise. Additionally, the brief nature of this practice may not be sufficient for those seeking more in-depth mindfulness training. However, as a starting point or a supplement to existing mindfulness practices, this exercise can still be a valuable resource. For more information on the challenges of mindfulness, visit [[mindfulness-challenges|Mindfulness Challenges]]. To explore related topics, check out [[mental-health-challenges|Mental Health Challenges]] and [[stress-management-challenges|Stress Management Challenges]].

Originally reported by VA News and Information (.gov)