Defining Mindfulness
The word “mindfulness” is now ubiquitous in education, business, and many other professions and communities. While it can be easy to get bogged down searching for the perfection definition, children usually describe it nice and simply as "noticing what's happening now."
One of the most frequently used definitions comes from Jon Kabat Zinn, creator of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and one of today’s foremost authorities on secular mindfulness:
“Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.”
We can practice mindfulness almost anytime, anywhere, as long as the 3 characteristics mentioned above are present. A few examples of mindfulness practice include paying attention to:
One of the most frequently used definitions comes from Jon Kabat Zinn, creator of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and one of today’s foremost authorities on secular mindfulness:
“Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.”
We can practice mindfulness almost anytime, anywhere, as long as the 3 characteristics mentioned above are present. A few examples of mindfulness practice include paying attention to:
- Your breath;
- Sound;
- Thoughts;
- The feeling of water on your hands as you wash dishes;
- The sensation on the soles of your feet as you walk.
Is Mindfulness Meditation?
Mindfulness is often practiced as a meditation technique. However, mindfulness takes many forms beyond meditation. Conversely, there are many types of meditation that are not specifically mindfulness based.
Mindfulness is an Important Life Skill
Mindfulness practice changes the way our brains work. An ever-growing body of research spanning four decades continues to suggest the following benefits:
- Improved focus & attention
- Increased sense of calm
- Decreased stress & anxiety
- Better impulse control
- Heightened self-awareness
- Greater empathy & understanding of others
- Development of natural conflict resolution skills
Common Misconceptions
While it’s easy to get excited about the benefits of mindfulness practice, it’s equally important to have a clear understanding of the nature of mindfulness and what it can do. Mindfulness is NOT…
…about being calm. Yes, mindfulness can have a calming effect. But we can be mindful of a vast range of states we experience, such as agitation, fear, and excitement.
…about discipline. Mindfulness is not intended to be used, nor is it effective, as a t a disciplinary “time out" or other punitive measure.
…about absence of thought. Mindfulness teaches us to notice our thoughts without over-identifying with them. Trying to empty your head of all thoughts would require removing a large chunk of your brain!
…religion. Some religions do incorporate mindfulness-based practices in very specific contexts. However, mindfulness is at its core an entirely secular practice that neither promotes one religion over another nor conflicts with a person’s religious values.
…a magic bullet. While mindfulness is an important life skill, it is not a quick fix to all of life’s problems.
…about being calm. Yes, mindfulness can have a calming effect. But we can be mindful of a vast range of states we experience, such as agitation, fear, and excitement.
…about discipline. Mindfulness is not intended to be used, nor is it effective, as a t a disciplinary “time out" or other punitive measure.
…about absence of thought. Mindfulness teaches us to notice our thoughts without over-identifying with them. Trying to empty your head of all thoughts would require removing a large chunk of your brain!
…religion. Some religions do incorporate mindfulness-based practices in very specific contexts. However, mindfulness is at its core an entirely secular practice that neither promotes one religion over another nor conflicts with a person’s religious values.
…a magic bullet. While mindfulness is an important life skill, it is not a quick fix to all of life’s problems.