What Is Really Meant By “Mindfulness”?

The Buddhist notion of mindfulness is something that we can all use in our lives because it sets us free – at least temporarily – from our quotidian cares.

To be mindful simply means to pay attention. But in this context it means more than that. Living mindfully means completely focusing on whatever task we have in hand – adding up figures, playing tennis, walking to school – whatever.

This has the effect of turning the task into a meditation. Try it with the next thing you do – even reading this sentence, just focus in on this page and block out everything else: extraneous noise, smells, the sensations of your body. Immerse yourself in the act of reading – absorbing each word.

Maybe you did that for a moment. Now choose a task that’s more routine; less full of surprises than this text. Making dinner is a good one. As you prepare the food go about each task with deliberation. You may realise that for certain tasks, especially creative ones, such as cooking, it’s normal for you to enter a meditative state.

So now try really focusing when you’re doing something you don’t like – or something that bores you – like vacuuming, ironing or the accounts. Let the rest of the world fall away. Relax into your work.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

This is a simple meditation procedure that can create a deep state of relaxation in your mind and body. As the mind quiets down but remains awake, you will experience deeper, more silent levels of awareness. It is recommended that you practice this procedure about 15 minutes twice a day, in the morning and the evening. You may also use this technique for a few minutes during the day if you are feeling upset or agitated. This will help you to re-center yourself.

During this Mindfulness Meditation, relinquish any expectations you may have during the practice.

At times you may notice that a feeling or mood is predominant in your awareness. If you notice that you are focusing on a feeling, mood or expectation, treat this as you would any other thought and gently bring your awareness back to the breath. (10 minutes)

Now wait about 1 or 2 minutes and then please open your eyes slowly.We recommend that you practice this technique sitting for about 15 minutes twice per day.