What is mindfulness?

Perhaps, like many people, you have assumed that mindfulness is mainly about meditation, relaxation, or trying to “empty” the mind.

In reality, mindfulness is much simpler and more practical. It is something that can be woven into ordinary, everyday life.

Rather than trying to silence your thoughts, mindfulness invites you to notice them with curiosity, without becoming overwhelmed or controlled by them.

Thoughts will naturally come and go throughout the day. It can sometimes help to imagine them as birds flying overhead — you may notice them, acknowledge them, and choose which ones you allow to “land”, and which ones you allow to pass by.

That is mindfulness.

In the same way, mindfulness is not about forcing difficult emotions away in order to “relax”, or pretending everything is calm. Instead, it is about learning to notice what is happening within you with curiosity and no judgment.

Feelings often rise and fall like waves in the ocean. Some are gentle waves, while others may feel intense and relentless for a time. Yet even the most difficult waves eventually move through.

Mindfulness can help you learn to steady yourself through painful emotions, while also being fully present to moments of peace, joy, and connection.

None of us are mindful every single moment of every single day. We are human. Yet mindfulness can become a valuable and grounding tool — one that helps us navigate both the beautiful and painful parts of life, while staying connected to what matters most to us.

If you are curious about how mindfulness may support your wellbeing, I warmly invite you to reach out.

It would be a privilege to walk alongside you.

© Joanne Edwards