What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a pretty big buzzword these days. And there’s good reason for this, as hundreds of research studies have shown the efficacy of engaging in a regular practice of mindful meditation and awareness.
So just what is Mindfulness?
At its foundation, Mindfulness is simply being present and aware of this moment, with a non-judgemental attitude. The very essence of this is learning how to abide in the here-and-now of your experience, deliberately and with an open curiosity.
Mindfulness practices include formal times of sitting in deliberate meditations AND more informal day-to-day practices that become interwoven with your daily round. Through a sustained time of delving into these practices, the busyness of thinking takes a backseat, while your present lived experience comes more to the forefront.
At the very least, learning how to practice mindfulness means re-connecting with the simple joy of living in the here and now. You become more present to your family, your colleagues, your community, and most of all, yourself.
What are some of the benefits of Mindfulness?
Over the past 20 years or so, research has indicated that regular practice of Mindfulness can promote the following benefits:
- lowered stress levels
- blood pressure and nervous system regulation
- improved sleep patterns
- calmer mind and emotional clarity
- general sense of happiness heightened
- greater degree of self-acceptance