What is Mindfulness?
Definition
Mindfulness is the present-centred nonjudgemental awareness in which every thought, feeling or sensation that arises in the attentional field is acknowledged and accepted as it is. – Bishop et al, 2004
Present in the Western sphere mostly in the field of psychology and applied most prevalently with the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, the concept finds its origin in the meditation practice of Buddhism. In a secular context, it has become more and more recognized in its potential to improve concentration as well as general well-being (for results of research with stressed employees of a biotech company in Wisconsin click here).
How to cultivate mindfulness?
The favored means by which this healthy cultivation of attention is practiced is still mindfulness meditation. In this practice, by beginning to focus on the breath, one tries to maintain an attitude of curiosity about where the mind wanders whenever it inevitably drifts away from the breath. All thoughts, feelings and sensations that arise are initially seen as relevant and therefore subject to observation. One is thus not trying to produce a state such as relaxation or to change what he or she is feeling in any way. Rather, one is instructed to make an effort to just take notice of each thought, feeling, and sensation that arises in the stream of consciousness.
For more detailed information see “Mindfulness: A Proposed Operational Definition” (Bishop et al, 2004)
But don’t forget:
All this theoretical and inevitably conceptual way of defining mindfulness shall not distract from the fact that there is only one real approach to mindfulness, and that is practicing it. Whether doing so in a business meeting, at breakfast, when talking to friends or just going for a walk, it only fully enfolds when becoming part of your daily life.
Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis
on which the world earth revolves – slowly, evenly, without
rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment.
Only this moment is life.
– T.N. Hanh
