What is Mindfulness?

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             ‘Mindfulness’ is an ancient concept that can be found in a wide range of spiritual and religious traditions, including martial arts, yoga, tai chi, Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.  Modern psychology has developed a number of therapeutic applications based on the concept of mindfulness, and research has found that they are particularly effective for reducing anxiety, depression and stress.

Mindfulness can be defined in a variety of different ways, but they all essentially involve ‘being in the present moment’, by paying attention to things that you are experiencing in the here and now.

Mindfulness involves paying attention to the experience in the moment in a non-judgmental way instead of being caught up in thoughts. In other words, it is a process of purely being aware of what is going on in our mind and around us, and in doing so reducing active thinking of unwanted thoughts.

This allows for increased experience of living in the present moment, reducing fears of the future or hurts of the past. It is helpful for many things including:

  • reducing anxiety
  • coping with stress
  • clearing your thoughts
  • increasing the enjoyment you get out of life

Many psychologists are trained in evidence-based practices including mindfulness. If you are interested in learning more about mindfulness and how it might help change your life please call Balance Psychology on 1300 855 601 !