What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is paying attention to what is happening right here and now, with interest and kindness. A deepening awareness develops that gives us the ability to respond to what is happening in our lives rather than simply reacting. We worry less about what might happen or about what has already happened and we feel calmer. We are able to think more clearly and we are more open to life.
This is a powerful approach to working with our daily physical and emotional stress. Brain scans show that regular mindfulness practice significantly alters the functioning and structure of the brain. And research demonstrates many benefits of mindfulness including reduced anxiety, depression, fatigue, anger, negative mood states, and chronic pain. Additionally, mindfulness practices have been shown to improve quality of life, sleep patterns, memory, self-compassion, self-esteem and positive feelings.
This is a powerful approach to working with our daily physical and emotional stress. Brain scans show that regular mindfulness practice significantly alters the functioning and structure of the brain. And research demonstrates many benefits of mindfulness including reduced anxiety, depression, fatigue, anger, negative mood states, and chronic pain. Additionally, mindfulness practices have been shown to improve quality of life, sleep patterns, memory, self-compassion, self-esteem and positive feelings.
“The best way to capture moments is to pay attention. This is how we cultivate mindfulness. Mindfulness means being awake. It means knowing what you are doing.”
― Jon Kabat-Zinn, Wherever You Go, There You Are
