MINDFULNESS:
WHAT IT IS, WHAT IT ISN'T

What mindfulness IS:

1. “Awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.” –Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of MBSR Program

2. A method to become a more objective observer of our own lives: this involves recognition of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as experiences, rather than a component of personal identity

3. A way to foster the ability to respond to a variety of situations in better alignment with our core values, rather than instinctively reacting

What mindfulness ISN'T:

1. A method of increasing productivity: although when we pay more attention, this may happen, it is important not to take on more as stress will then return to baseline

2. Sitting on a cushion chanting “Om”: although a component of mindfulness practice is often a formal ”sitting” practice, this can be done in a variety of positions, and is generally done in silence

3. A cure-all for mental illness or distress: While mindfulness has been shown to be helpful for many psychiatric disorders, not all mindfulness practices are appropriate when certain mental and/or physical conditions are present. Anyone with a health condition should seek advice of a professional before beginning a mindfulness practice.

4. A religion: mindfulness practice itself is generally secular, but many practices have Buddhist origins

5. A way to make every experience in life pleasant, or change an objectively harmful situation into a healthy one