Finding stillness within

For my artifacts, I have included two photos, the first was from when I completed the seminar exit ticket and had to sit and just be present in nature for the moment, he second another exit ticket- this one was the yoga nidra seminar exit ticket, I listened to the audio while relaxing.

I chose this topic because it helped me finally understand why slowing down matters. I often move quickly between school, work, and life, and I rarely pause to check in with myself. Week 9 introduced reflection as a way of understanding my reactions, beliefs, and emotional patterns.

Mindfulness also supported my personal growth. Learning to pay attention on purpose, even for a minute, helps me interrupt automatic stress reactions. Simple grounding techniques, like focusing on my breath, touching the floor with my feet, or observing my surroundings, help me feel more present. Studies show that mindfulness reduces stress, improves sleep, and increases emotional regulation among student nurses (van der Riet et al., 2018). Integrating spirituality from Week 8 added another layer. Professionally, this topic matters because presence is one of the most powerful nursing interventions. Just being fully with someone, listening without judgment, and acknowledging their humanity can reduce distress. This reminded me why caring for myself is essential: I cannot offer presence when I am disconnected from myself.