Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation

Monday, October 15th, 2007

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What is Mindfulness Meditation?

“Mindfulness is a state of being aware of your own mind, at any given moment. It means to pay attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment and without judgment.”

- Jon Kabat-Zinn, Founder, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

Mindfulness meditation is not a religious practice despite its Buddhist origin. It is simply about giving attention to the present moment, being alert and aware – a state of being that is in stark contrast to the mind’s incessant chatter.

With today’s busy lifestyle and all the pressures of work, relationships and family life, our minds have become saturated with thoughts. The majority of these thoughts have nothing to do with the present moment and repeat themselves endlessly like a broken record player…

Mindfulness meditation is an effective way to develop a higher level of awareness – awareness of our thoughts and feelings, actions and reactions, and our surroundings.

Meditating creates space inside our minds, so that we are more alert and can respond to our experiences rather than judge and react with emotions.

Anyone, as young as preschoolers, can learn to become mindful. It is simple and easy. Once you have learned the technique, it is a skill that will last a life time and you can practice it anytime and anywhere. This skill can help athletes achieve their personal best and students excel in school.

By simply setting aside some time each day to stop everything, we create a space in our minds that is profoundly healing.

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