What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Smritti’ which translates as ‘remembering’. Mindfulness is the process of becoming aware of the present moment in a non-judgemental and accepting way. It is the awareness of what ‘is’ at that moment without trying to change it or judge anything but simply accepting it just ‘is’.
Mindfulness in practice is a way of orienting one’s self to the present moment and involves maintaining awareness on one’s immediate experience, as opposed to being distracted by thoughts of the past or future, or in avoidance of one’s experience.
Cultivating mindfulness involve regular practice in which the participant focuses attention on a particular stimulus, such as one’s breath or sensations within the body, at a particular moment. Such practices help to cultivate Everyday Mindfulness.
Everyday Mindfulness involves maintaining the open, accepting, and present focus of attention during day-to-day or moment-to-moment activities.
Mindfulness can only really be known through the actual practice of being mindful.
Who can practice Mindfulness?
Mindfulness has no religious of cultural orientations it is simply the act of becoming aware of the present moment of attending to changes in thoughts, body sensations and the external world without trying to make judgements or change anything. Therefore it can be incorporated into the day to day lives of anyone who has the capacity to bring awareness to the breath.