Mindfulness

“Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally, in the service of self-understanding and wisdom.”

- Jon Kabat-Zinn

Practicing mindfulness consists of focusing your attention on one point, holding it there until the mind inevitably wonders, and then gently bringing the attention back. Repeating this practice over time will allow you to focus more clearly and more passionately in the present moment. 

Present Moment Awareness

If you pause and consider the source of stress in your life, it is very rarely happening in this moment. We develop anxiety about an upcoming event or regret around a past occurrence. However in most instances, the present moment is rather neutral. There is not a current existential threat or cause for great concern.

Thus, we train ourselves, or “practice”, staying in the present moment. We stop perpetually casting ourselves into a worried, uncertain future or a troubling, immutable past.

Like any skill, your ability to stay present will improve with practice. The process of bringing your mind back to your point of focus will become second-nature, and you will start to live more fully in the present moment. 

Informal Practice

For those new to mindfulness meditation, I suggest for informal mindful practices, turning your daily routines into opportunities for arriving fully in the present moment. If you walk on your commute, notice how each step feels.  Close your devices in the morning and take 10 minutes to slowly enjoy a cup of coffee.