What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness meditation is a mental training practice that teaches you to slow down racing thoughts, let go of negativity, and calm both your mind and body. Mindfulness techniques can vary, but in general, mindfulness meditation involves breathing practice, mental imagery, awareness of body and mind, and muscle and body relaxation. The historical background to this popular form of meditation, and the science supporting this method practice demonstrates the benefits.

Mindfulness-based therapies (MBTs) have shown promising results in non-psychotic disorders. Unlike most other psychotherapy models, which are claimed to be Western in origin, MBTs are firmly based on Indian philosophy and traditions.³¹ Modern-day practitioners such as Jon Kabat-Zinn popularized this meditation practice through a movement and have gained worldwide notoriety in bringing the everyday practice of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training to the public. Mindful practice techniques include: mindful breathing, mindful observation, mindful awareness, mindful listening, mindful immersion, and mindful appreciation.

Hence, science supports the idea that in times of uncertainty, mindfulness techniques can be an extremely helpful method to gain perspective and restore balance in one’s life.