MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is a quality of an individual by which he/she is in the present moment with higher conscious and completely aware of past and future without any intervention. Mindfulness can be practiced in a meditative posture and also while doing our regular activities. Mindfulness is used in several therapeutic interventions, including mindfulness-based cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and mindfulness meditation.

During mindfulness state, our consciousness is in present moment and our mind is working as it has been doing so far by recalling old memories and connecting with the future anticipations. But our consciousness is not involved in responding or reacting to those functions of the mind. Here, we are well aware of our body and mind with respect to the present moment as an observer. Mindfulness is a technique you can learn which involves noticing what's happening in the present moment, without judgement.

Fundamental Techniques

1) Notice how thoughts come and go in your mind: You may learn that they don't have to define who you are, or your experience of the world, and that you can let go of them.

2) Notice what your body is telling you: For example, you might feel tension or anxiety in your body, such as a fast heartbeat, tense muscles or shallow breathing

3) Create space between you and your thoughts: With this space, you can reflect on the situation and react more calmly

Mindfulness in Psychotherapy

1) Studies show that practicing mindfulness can help to manage common mental health problems like depression, anxiety and feelings of stress

2) There is some evidence that mindfulness could help with more complex mental health conditions, such as psychosis and bipolar disorder

3) You might find mindfulness very helpful. Or you might feel like it doesn't work or makes you feel worse. It's important to do what works for you and your mental health

4) You can also talk to your doctor about what kinds of treatments might suit you best

5) You might find trying mindfulness is useful while waiting to receive other types of treatment