What is Mindfulness?
“Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally. It’s about knowing what is on our mind.” Jon Kabat-Zinn
Through practising mindfulness we take time to notice our experiences as they unfold, moment by moment, with an open mind and with acceptance. Rather than worrying about what has happened or might happen, the practice trains us to respond skilfully to whatever is happening right now.
The roots of mindfulness come to us from Buddhism, where it remains an important part of the tradition. Yet mindfulness as a modern, Western practice is most often practised outside of any spiritual contexts.
Where do I start?
Mindfulness is for everyone and is helping to improve mental and physical health in the workplace, schools, hospitals, prisons, the military – in all walks of life. Everyone can benefit from becoming more mindful. You can practise mindfulness without any special equipment and at any time of the day and night. It is not a religious practice. It is open to all – if you have a body, a mind and a pair of lungs, mindfulness is available to you and can be used in everyday life.
I run dedicated mindfulness classes and also integrate mindfulness as part of my regular yoga classes. A full 8-week programme is also available. There is something for everyone.
Contact me direct to find out more.
How do I learn Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is learnt in a practical way, through experience rather than theory. We gradually learn to direct our attention in a more focused way to whatever is actually happening – whether it is our breathing, the sensations in our body, thoughts and feelings, or everyday activities, such as walking and eating.
“After turning up slightly frazzled, hysterical, sad, drained and resistant at times, the consistent positivity has been so rewarding.”
“A well organised course. Consistantly engaging and thoughtful. Always positive.”
“I have really enjoyed the connection with others. The practical approach to less anxiety at work. More control/choice.”
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF MINDFULNESS?
Brain imaging studies show that mindfulness practice reliably and profoundly alters the structure and function of the brain to improve quality of thought, feeling and empathy. We are not hardwired, as people used to believe. Through practice and guidance, you begin to understand that thoughts and feelings come and go of their own accord; that you are not your thoughts and, ultimately, you have a choice about whether to act on them or not. You are creating space in which to experience everyday life and all that comes with it.
This aspect of mindfulness holds infinite possibilities for leading a happier and more fulfilled life.
WHY PRACTISE MINDFULNESS?
There is a growing body of evidence that mindfulness training improves health and wellbeing. It helps people of all ages to learn effectively and think more clearly, perform better and feel calmer, less anxious and less depressed.
Mindfulness is now recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) and GPs are referring adults to 8-week courses that reduce stress and help prevent recurrent depression.
It is being used in the workplace to improve staff wellbeing and satisfaction; in sports training to improve performance and with children and young people in schools to improve mental health and wellbeing, learning and resilience.
Over time mindfulness brings about long-term changes in mood and levels of happiness and wellbeing.