What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is stilling the mind. As thoughts arise you allow them to pass without judgment. What is the difference between mindfulness and meditation? Mindfulness is the quality of the individual in being conscious/ self-aware in their actions and thoughts. Meditation is a method in attaining mindfulness. Mindfulness is meditation in action. It allows one to appreciate the moment with a bigger perspective about life. A sense of calmness can arise from mindfulness.     

That being said, if a path to mindfulness is meditation, how do you do it? 

Basic Mindfulness Meditation:

-Sit upright and cross-legged on a cushion/ floor or sit in a chair in a quiet place. 

-Your eyes can be closed or open with a specific focus for your gaze. 

-Focus on your breathing. For example, counting when you inhale and exhale. Inhale 1, exhale 2 up to 10, repeat. 

-As thoughts arise, you allow them to pass without attaching to them and creating a storyline. Try not to label a thought as good or bad. It is just a thought.   

It is best to meditate each day for a certain amount of time. What time of day or for how long is for you to decide. An ideal amount would be 15 to 20 minutes a day.

It is important to work up to this amount as the illusive “monkey mind” will reveal itself initially. A “monkey mind” is a chaotic parade of thoughts that seem to enhance as you begin to meditate. This is normal and will eventually with practice, you will have an understanding with this monkey as you find your path to mindfulness.