10/23/2024
What is mindfulness?
Although there is not one single definition shared by all who have been trained in and teach mindfulness, there are common themes or elements of mindfulness that can be found across definitions:
- Awareness (or focused attention)
- (on the) Present moment
- Non-judgment/Acceptance/Compassion/Curiosity/Openness to new possibilities, etc.
The third element or theme is where the most variability seems to occur, but generally encompasses a willingness to be with whatever is present, including any uncertainty or discomfort, as well as enjoyment or ease. Perhaps the most challenging of the elements, this theme has the potential to influence our perception of reality in quite significant ways.
