Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness Meditation is one of the many meditation techniques, which involves focusing on one’s mind in the present.

What exactly is Mindfulness Meditation? It is basically a form of meditation that requires a conscious practice to focus on one’s entire awareness on the present moment. Essentially, mindfulness meditation focuses our attention on our present, without judging ourselves. By doing so, we release all unnecessary tension, stress and activities from our minds and bodies. This will then result in a point of stillness, or inner state of peace within oneself. Being aware of our inner state of mind can help us accept difficult situations in our lives; it prevents our mind from being distracted by disturbances and enables us to focus on our thoughts and relax the mind.

Many negative emotions like anger, frustrations, disappointments and stress can adversely affect our minds and bodies. Mindfulness Meditation is able to help us deal with such negative feelings by training and developing the strengths of the mind to achieve a state of tranquility and an inner peacefulness.

Although Mindfulness Meditation is taken largely from Buddhism, anyone can practice it regardless of race, religion or nationality. It is not a religious practice and does not require one to change their beliefs.

One can practice the Mindfulness Meditation technique by following the steps:

1. Body posture

Sit comfortable with your spine erected with the head balanced naturally, looking forward with eyes closed. You may sit on a chair, one the floor, on the knees or cross legged with a support, such as a cushion. The body must be still for a period of time for the mind to relax and calm down. In due time, prolonged stillness can be achieved without much discomfort.

2. Thoughts

You should not attempt to control your thoughts, because the more you try to control, the stronger they become. Focus your attention on your breath and observe it with passive awareness. Observe your thoughts, feelings and sensations with compassion and tolerance. Do not engage with your thoughts by judging or analyzing them.

3. Breathing

Start by breathing gently and naturally. Breathe through the nose and allow your belly to rise as you inhale and fall as you exhale. Place your attention on your breath, as it is the key to Mindfulness Meditation.

While you are practicing Mindfulness Meditation, watch every thought come and go, whether it is a fear or worry. Be sure not to analyze or judge. Do not ignore or suppress your thoughts. If you find yourself being carried away, take note of where your mind went off to, then return your mind to your breathing. As the time comes to a close, sit for a minute or two, continue observing your breaths, then slowly be aware of where you are.

Mindfulness Meditation is an effective method for stress management. It is bound to improve one’s lifestyles and balance the mind, body and spirit. Mindfulness Meditation advocates for faith in the perfection of the moment and allows each new experience to be felt fully, without the self-critical controlling mind.