What is Mindfulness
What is Mindfulness
In essence, mindfulness is about cultivating awareness, by purposefully paying attention in the present moment, and in an open and non-judgemental manner. Through this meditation practice, we learn to observe ourselves and the world around us, with a kind welcoming, and without criticism that may arise from our habits and conditioned judgements.
Whilst the training may have roots in spiritual traditions, mindfulness is completely secular and non-faith-based. Through mindful awareness training, we can begin to see things as they actually are, rather than how we may want them to be. This allows us to be authentic, open, and alive to our experiences, rather than through the filter of our habits, judgements, and conditioning.
In essence, mindfulness is simply a basic human quality in being fully alive and present, aware of where we are, what we are doing, and in understanding how we think, feel, and act. It can help us to avoid over-reacting, or becoming overwhelmed by the challenges in our lives
Training the Mind
Through these online sessions, the mindfulness practice aims to systematically develop attentional training. This will allow you to become mindful of the present moment, and become aware of your internal and external experience, such as sensations, thoughts, feelings, and interactions with others. In essence, to become familiar with your own mind, body, emotions and thinking patterns, to allow a more skillful understanding of yourself, and your interaction with the world.
With practice, mindfulness has been shown to bring positive long-term changes in our emotions and feelings, with a perceptibly calmer mind, and increased resilience to stress. This has been shown to significantly improve our mood, as well as increase wellbeing and feelings of contentment and happiness in our daily lives