Mindfulness means many things to many people and it is difficult to condense its meaning to just a few words. In essence, it is an awareness, in the present moment of one’s own (and possibly another person’s) feelings, emotions and thoughts without judgments. Of course our day to day judgements serve many useful purposes but from a mindfulness perspective it is important to notice them.
Utilizing mindfulness does not require a huge commitment. Even simple techniques such observing the breath or sounds can alleviate stress and anxiety. A calmer mind is better equipped to deal with addictions, grief, loss, conflict, and other challengers that we encounter.
In my counselling practice sometimes I invite clients to try meditation and/or consider undertaking a mindfulness course. Also, I often encourage them to notice the “stories” in their heads. I explain that these stories often involve judgements and assumptions. They are not necessarily incorrect constructions but often quite unhelpful. At times we are all hostages to the limited scope of our own minds. Through mindfulness we can loosen this tendency to be attached to our thought patterns. Becoming more of an observer rather than an active participant in the machinations of our minds is crucial in becoming mindful. Meditation can assist us in noticing/observing what our minds are doing.
I have found a few passages in the book “MINDFULNESS” authored by Joseph Goldstein which I believe are helpful in understanding some of these concepts.
“Mindfulness of seeing … can be particularly helpful in the midst of daily situations. I had an illuminating experience walking down Fifth Avenue in New York, looking in store windows and seeing many seductive things for sale. After some time, I noticed that my mind was continually reaching out with desire… this reaching out was enjoyable in one way, when I looked more deeply I saw that the mind filled with wanting is not at ease” – pg 16
“Reactions to others can be a powerful mindfulness bell … we can become mindful of our own reactive states, such as impatience, anger, or fear” – pg 114
“It is precisely the mind not clouded by anger or hatred that allows us to see situations clearly and to chart the right course of action” – pg 130
“Guilt is an unwholesome factor of mind that simply reinforces the sense of self with negative self-judgement … remorse’ on the other hand, acknowledges the action … makes amends where possible” – pg 161
Patrick Moloney April 28th 2020