Mindfulness – What is it?

We can practice being mindful through “formal” exercises such as Meditation and through how we approach every day activities such as washing up, cooking, driving the car or having a walk.

Mindfulness is “the awareness that arises from paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, without judgement to things as they are”.

So it is a particular way of paying attention to ourselves, others and the world around us.

Mindfulness is not paying more attention (or trying hard to be more mindful) but paying attention differently and more wisely, with the whole mind and heart, using the full resources of the body and its senses.

Through practicing this particular way of paying attention we build the capability and capacity to think, understand and respond more skillfully to others and the world around us with all its difficulties and joys.

Mindfulness practice changes the brain.

Mindfulness is Brain Training. As going to the gym develops the body so Mindfulness practice develops the brain and mind.

For more information about Mindfulness please see:

The Breathworks Mindfulness Website »

The Mindfulnet website »

References:

1. Jon Kabat Zinn (2001)
2. Mark Williams (2007)