It means being aware of our own experience with intention, in the present moment, in a non-judgemental way.
When we practice Mindfulness, we are aware about what is happening without criticism. We can learn to look at negative emotions, like if they were clouds in the sky and become more compassionate with ourselves. This helps us to learn how to notice negative thought patterns before we get caught into them, triggering a downward spiral that can lead to depression and anxiety.
Being mindful helps us to be more fully engaged in activities, makes it easier for us to appreciate life and have a greater resilience to cope with negative events.
Over time, mindfulness can bring long-term improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms as well as positive changes in health, attitudes and behaviours. It can have a positive effect on mood, helping with common mental heath problems like depression and anxiety. It can help brain function, reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, improve insomnia, reduce fatigue and manage chronic pain.
Mindfulness techniques can be included in the therapy for a number of problems, including depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, couple conflicts, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse.
