Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgementally. Simple, but not easy.  Although the roots of the practices are from ancient Buddhist teachings, the benefits are applicable to many of our current ills.

Learning to connect with our body and stay present with the sensations and emotions we experience lays the foundation for change.  Without awareness, we get stuck in habitual patterns.  Trauma creates a  disconnection from our body, and anxiety and depression can create an internal state that is uncomfortable to tolerate.  Mindfulness techniques such as connecting with the breath provide an anchor when distressing emotions arise.  As we bring our awareness to the flow of air through our nostrils and our belly rising with each inhale we become more centered and grounded. Being present to what is actually happening in the moment pulls us out of anxieties about the future or ruminating about the past.  Research has shown that mindfulness based interventions are effective for a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, and smoking cessation.

The busy pace of the modern lifestyle and the value place on intellectual achievement means that many of us go through life stuck in our head, always planning, thinking, and juggling our to-do list. We miss the sensual delights of the feel of our feet on the ground, or the ray of sun illuminating a leaf, or subtle flavors of our food.  All of these pleasures can add to our well-being and renewal if we take notice of them.