“Mindfulness” refers to a unique way of paying attention to our thoughts, feelings and behaviour, that:
- Involves more than simply “going through the motions” of life – it’s about being present in the moment
- Promotes greater self-awareness and recognition of how thoughts and behaviour affect mood
- Helps clarify what is really important and encourages authentic living (i.e., making thoughtful decisions based on personal core values, instead of reacting to emotional states)
The crux of meditation is being in the moment – calming your mind and focusing on a particular thought, sight, sound, smell or taste. It can be accomplished by closing your eyes, slowing your breath and focusing on a target thought or sensation. In the picture above, the woman could be focusing on the warmth of the sun, the cleanliness of the air, the sounds of nature or a positive experience that made her day. Some people enjoy going through a body scan meditation during which you focus on each part of your body from your toes to your head, while others prefer to simply breathe and focus on one element without guidance. For some, just the thought of meditating makes them cringe and they choose to be mindful by participating in activities that involve focus such as adult colouring, playing an instrument or dancing. No matter how you choose to be mindful, the benefits are the same.
Evidence from the American Psychological Association shows that mindfulness has many benefits, including:
- helping reduce rumination (replaying a negative or anxiety-provoking thought over and over in your head)
- decreasing stress and anxiety
- boosting your working memory
- improving focus
- providing greater relationship satisfaction.
Bhante Henepola Gunaratana described the benefits well by claiming: “Mindfulness gives you time. Time gives you choices. Choices, skillfully made, lead to freedom. You don’t have to be swept away by your feeling. You can respond with wisdom and kindness, rather than habit and reactivity”.
At The Mindful Living Centre, we strive to help clients build mindfulness skills to cope with unpleasant emotions and life circumstances, while increasing their sense of personal contentment, gratitude and life satisfaction.
Please note: this is for informational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for therapy or advice from a qualified professional.
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