Mindfulness & Attention-Training Skills
Mindfulness Briefly Defined
Mindfulness is the practice of paying deliberate, non-judgmental attention to the present moment. Unlike common myths, mindfulness is not synonymous with meditation and is not exclusive to Buddhism. It is a core component of Yoga (5,000+ years old) and Buddhist traditions (2,500+ years old), and is now integrated into all modern evidence-based psychotherapies.
Why Mindfulness Matters
Scientific research over the past 40+ years confirms mindfulness improves emotional regulation, boosts psychological resilience, and supports physical health. By developing mindful awareness, you gain the power to observe thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them.
Practical Applications
Mindfulness can be applied anytime—while walking, eating, working, or engaging with others. It’s not about stopping thoughts or sitting still with your eyes closed. It’s about being fully present, using your senses, and responding intentionally rather than reacting automatically.
Applied to thoughts, mindfulness can help you stay focused in the present moment (what you’re doing) vs. becoming caught up in your thoughts (what your mind is doing).
Rather than ‘stopping your thoughts’ or ‘sitting still, eyes closed and meditating’ mindful awareness can be applied to anything you are doing/experiencing—using any or all of your senses—anytime.
Learn More
-
To unpack the principles of mindfulness and how it differs from common misconceptions, see What Mindfulness Is and Isn’t: A Deep Dive.
-
To explore common misunderstandings that block progress with mindfulness, see Common Mindfulness Myths & Obstacles.
-
To access practical, guided exercises that help build mindful awareness, see Explore Guided Mindfulness Audio Exercises.
