Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention on purpose to the present moment with a non-judgmental and kind attitude, adapted from Jon Kabat-Zinn's definition.
It involves noticing when the mind wanders and gently bringing it back to the present moment, paying attention to sensations, emotions, and thoughts without attaching stories or meanings to them.
Mindfulness is cultivated through regular practice, both formal and informal.
Formal Practices: Practicing mindfulness meditations such as awareness of breath, open awareness, and body scan meditations.
Information Practice: Bringing mindful attention to ordinary activities such as eating, walking, and showering.
Mindfulness is not just a technique but a way of life, applicable to every moment and activity. Think of it like learning to ride a bike; you can't master it by watching videos or reading books—you need to practice. Similarly, the benefits of mindfulness, such as stress reduction and improved focus, come from regular practice.
We learn about impermanence through mindfulness: experiences arise, linger, and fade away. We observe thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment and notice how they come and go. This helps us stay present rather than being lost in thoughts about the past or future. For instance, instead of worrying about work while on vacation, mindfulness helps us enjoy the moment, like feeling the sun on our face or admiring the mountains.
Research shows that mindfulness enhances emotional regulation, reduces stress reactivity, decreases rumination, and improves focus and higher-order thinking skills, but these are only a few of the benefits. It's important to approach mindfulness with an open, curious mind and without specific expectations. Rather than striving for a particular outcome, we welcome all experiences during practice.
Mindfulness offers a bird's-eye view of life, revealing things we might have overlooked and providing a new level of awareness. While it requires time and commitment, the benefits extend beyond ourselves, positively impacting those around us.
Krista
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