1a. What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of keeping one’s attention or awareness on the present moment without making judgments. Being mindful creates a way of living that is less reactive and generally happier; however, it does not come naturally for many people. Our brains naturally switch focus depending on our surrounding environment, triggered memories, or our tendency to become bored. Focusing on the present moment can be challenging, and just like any skill, it requires practice!
The practice of mindfulness comes with its own misconceptions. Tap or hover over the images below to learn facts about what mindfulness is not.
Mindfulness is not a vacant mind
Our minds are designed to think, notice, and concentrate. Mindfulness is not the absence of thought, it is the focus of attention.
Mindfulness is not flow
We often think of mindfulness as a state of deep concentration. Although it is possible to achieve this state of deep concentration, it is not the main goal of mindfulness.
Mindfulness is not joy
Remember, you can have feelings of joy while being mindful. However, practicing mindfulness is not the guarantee of happiness, nor is it the intent of mindfulness to be happy.
Mindfulness is not peace
A common misconception is that mindfulness will melt your problems away and provide you with a feeling of peace. When practicing mindfulness, remember that it requires quite a lot of work.
There are 3 characteristics you can practice to help develop your mindfulness:
Intention
Start with the intention to cultivate awareness
Attention
Ability to pay attention to what is happening in the present moment
Attitude
Begin with an attitude that is non-judgmental, curious and kind