What is Mindfulness?

A Modern Day Buzz Word Or Something Much More?

We often hear the term 'mindfulness' or 'be mindful' being used all throughout aspects of our lives, from personal relationships to business settings.  

But what truly is mindfulness? 

This a common question that does not have one particular, succinct definition. It could be described as a sense of being rather than doing. A quality and not a quantity. 

I would describe mindfulness as a sense of non-judgmental being of both us as well as our surroundings. It is a way of connecting with your being and the world around you. 

So where do you begin?

Beginning a mindfulness practice may seem overwhelming as there are many beautiful qualities of mindfulness to explore, but let's begin with the all embracing loving-kindness.

Let's start with a simple exercise:

As you end your day, before you go to bed, mindfully reflect and write down all of the positive actions that you did, no matter how minute you may feel they are. 

Some examples of these positive actions could be:

• making your bed before you left for work 
• a kind compliment to a stranger at the grocery store 
• letting someone merge in front of you on the highway 
• a smile you gave
• leaving a penny at the register for someone who is short  

Now, mindfully reflect and write all of the negative actions you did. Some examples could be:

• procrastinating
• not holding a door for someone
• not letting someone merge in front of you on the highway
• being rude
• being sarcastic

Next, what were some neutral actions you did (or not do)?

• You walked with your head down to avoid eye contact
• Felt a sense of mundane boredom at work
• Did any action with a sense of routine energy

Compare your positive actions, neutral action, and your negative actions. 

Which do you have more of and why do you think that is?

When we initiate a positive action, whether it's to someone we know or not, we are expressing mindfulness. Positively expressing self-love, or mindfulness, we are rewarding ourselves with the gratitude we deserve. 

Let's consider just the simple example of a smile. 

When you smile at someone you are giving them a piece of yourself. It doesn't matter if they smile back or not. It was the mindful acknowledgement of fellow human being. The reward is in the action itself.   

When we initiate a negative action, whether it's to someone we know or not, we are not expressing mindfulness. In fact we are taking something valuable away from yourself. 

Let us consider a rude comment we might have made. 

Was this comment something we initiated or a response to someone else's comment? 

Was your ego hurt? Did you feel disrespected? 

Either way it does not matter. What does matter is that mindfulness was applied. The next time something like this occurs, mindfully express to them that the comment was not appropriate. This demonstrates self-control and growth.

Neutral actions are inherently neither positive or negative but certainly do not promote joy. 

Mindfulness is a lifestyle change and changes like this won't happen overnight. You may falter on occasion and that's normal so don't quit.  The goal is to make positive improvements as best you can.

Try this exercise for a week or a month and see if there is an improvement. 

I'd be interested in hearing from you so feel free to post a comment.

Wishing you peace and ease,

Vladimir

Blue Lotus Mindfulness and Meditation Center is a registered 501(c)(3) religious organization.