Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a form of meditation that stems from Buddhism but has become part of main-stream psychology.

Mindfulness is about being in the present moment, in a curious and non-judgemental way. We actually spend very little of our time in the present moment - often being more focussed on things that have happened or things that are yet to occur. This often has an impact on how we are feeling. By being in the present moment, we are more able to recognise thoughts as just thoughts, not facts, and to be more accepting of emotions. This has been found to reduce levels of distress.

How is mindfulness used in therapy?

Mindfulness can be used as a standalone therapy (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy) especially for people experiencing chronic pain or recurrent depression. However, it is also integrated into other forms of therapy, including compassion focussed therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy.

People practice various mindfulness meditations in session, with time taken to explore the impact of being mindful. Mindfulness is also practiced throughout the week, whether that is in formal meditations or in mindful moments (e.g. cleaning your teeth mindfully or eating a mouthful mindfully). Mindfulness also forms an important component of compassionate mind training, with exercises often rooted in being mindful of the breath.