Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a psychological practice that finds its roots in Buddhist Meditation. Despite that, mindfulness has gained familiarity more as a therapeutic application than a religious practice, and hence does not have a particular connection with any religious beliefs.

Mindfulness practices involve establishing a profound awareness of one’s own body, feelings, mind and soul. Research has shown that mindfulness practice on a day-to-day basis creates a good number of positive influences on our emotional as well as physical health. Therapists across the world have used this methodology as an extremely effective tool to help their patients overcome stress, anxiety, depression and phobias.

In 1979, Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn initiated the first mindfulness –based therapy program, and mindfulness has evolved as a popular medical alternative ever since. Some of the most famous mindfulness-based therapy programs are:

• Morita Therapy
• Gestalt therapy
• Adaptation practice – Article on Adaptation Practice
• Cognitive Therapy
• Hakomi

Mindfulness practices are very simple and easy-to-learn. All you have to do is bring your awareness to the present moment, which you can do independent of time and place. You can try it at home as well as at work, and relieve your mind from stressful ideas in no time.