A Beginner's Mind in Cozumel
In mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), one of the key principles is approaching each moment with a beginner’s mind—free from expectations and assumptions, allowing us to fully engage with the present. This mindset invites us to let go of past judgments and remain open and curious about what might unfold.
I recently had the chance to practice this on a trip to Cozumel, Mexico. Honestly, this isn’t a destination I would have historically gravitated toward. In the past, beach trips recalled memories of coarse sand, crashing waves, and water so murky you couldn’t see beneath the surface. I didn’t associate the beach with relaxation or ease. But on this trip, I decided to pause and catch myself in that automatic reaction, reminding myself to approach the experience with a beginner’s mind. I had the opportunity to be open to something new. To practice what I preach!
What happened surprised me.
Cozumel’s waters were clear, smooth, and inviting—completely unlike most of my previous experiences. I found myself reconnecting to the water in a way I hadn’t in years. Swimming and snorkeling in the calm, transparent ocean brought a sense of peace and relaxation I wasn’t expecting. It felt like a reconnection to the simple joys of being in the water, something I had almost forgotten from when I was a very little kid and just didn’t care.
This experience was a reminder of how powerful mindfulness can be. By catching myself in that moment of hesitation, I was able to choose curiosity over judgment and step into something newish. It’s easy to fall back on past experiences, especially when they’ve shaped our preferences. But by staying mindful and present, I was able to reconnect with my values—curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore beyond the familiar.
As you go through your day, where can you apply a beginner’s mind? What new experiences—big or small—might be waiting for you if you remain open to them? And how can personal awareness help you catch those moments when you fall into old patterns, allowing you to reconnect with your values?
Be well, Kristin
