Mindfulness comes to us from a variety of contemplative traditions throughout history.
It is a way of being fully present and awake in every moment of your life; a way of relating to all of your life as it happens and changes. It is also a practice - mindfulness meditation - a systematic way of intentionally attending to your mind, body and life.
Mindfulness invites us to observe and connect with our inner and outer experience in a caring and discerning way - to pay close attention to the present moment, noting our thoughts, feelings and body sensations with an attitude of curiosity and non-judgment.
As we practice and cultivate our capacity for mindful awareness we can begin to see ourselves and our situations with greater clarity and open to the possibility of being less reactive – of responding in skilful, creative and productive ways, even in challenging circumstances.
Developing the skills of mindfulness can help us take charge of the quality of our lives. Given the ever increasing complexity, pressure and pace of modern life perhaps the ancient skills of mindfulness are needed now more than ever.