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A Brief Introduction to Mindfulness

mindfulnessMany of us have heard the term Mindfulness. But what does it mean and why do we hear so much about it lately?

 

There are many ways to describe the state of mindfulness. It is about embracing “monotasking”. It is a state of “living in the moment”. It is a way to purposefully declutter our busy minds.

It is far from the latest fad. The practice of contemplation and meditation has been around for thousands of years, since the time of Buddha. But today, as we are bombarded by the information overload of our modern-day world, the practice has become even more relevant and necessary.

Why is it necessary? Because it works. The research is clear; practicing mindfulness on a daily basis can help decrease feelings of anxiety, pain and depression. It can improve sleep and better manage migraine headaches. Concentration, learning, memory and cognitive performance are improved among people who practice it regularly.

The practice of mindfulness is largely about becoming more acutely aware of the present moment, the ‘now’.  This is easier said that done. Why? Because we have a human tendency to let our thoughts wander and ‘float’ about. This ‘wander’ tends to take folks out of the ‘now’.  Being able to be more present, conscious and mindful of the currently moment, amplifies the lived experience, helping with improved sastisfation, contentment and happiness.

Over the next few weeks, this blog will focus on the many aspects of mindfulness. But let’s start by acknowledging that the term “meditation” does have a bit of a negative connotation. Many assume it is a mysterious skill that requires a membership in the local monastery! Not true – to meditate is not to levitate! As this series continues, you will see that mindfulness is in fact very accessible and uncomplicated. And Less is More – really does describe it I think!

George is the Clinical Director at Waypoint Counselling & Referral Centre. He has been a Registered Clinical Counsellor since 1991, working and teaching in a variety of counselling settings.

Waypoint counsellors are here to help when learning to deal with bad moods. Our office in downtown Victoria is a safe place to receive guidance and help make the best decisions to do with you life.

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