MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is an attempt at being present while trying to be an observer of what’s happening inside of and around us. In the core understanding of mindfulness, thoughts and feelings that arise for us don’t need to guide our behavior; they’re mostly there to be felt rather than suppressed. Mindfulness doesn’t always have to be in the form of meditation, it can also be applied in our day-to-day lives by not getting caught up questioning where every feeling or thought comes from. However, this state of awareness usually develops naturally through practices of meditation.

Being mindful is very much related to the way we act and respond to our external environment as it improves our ability to interpret our surroundings without judgment. It provides us the space and calm to think clearly, even amidst crises. It can help us understand the underlying reasons for whatever we may be feeling whether that be anger, sadness, happiness and more. While eating, walking, and even talking with a loved one, we can try to be more mindful and be totally present in the moment by taking a break from our thoughts about the past or future. Regular practice of mindfulness, therefore, can make us more aware of our feelings and thoughts, helping us use our internal resources for our benefit.

Mindfulness is an attitude and a state of being, revolving around important concepts such as, patience, gratitude, and acceptance.

Mindfulness is not to be mistaken as being positive all of the time. It is not a practice that seeks to exchange the bad for the good in life. Rather, it is about being aware of and present in the current moment, no matter what’s happening. One common way to practice mindfulness is through meditation.