Mindfulness – A Healthy Alternative for Stress Management

December 5, 2011

Mindfulness is a state or practice of the awareness of the present moment. Mindfulness is described by Jon Kabat-Zinn (1994) “as paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgementally” (p.4). It entails a heightened comprehension of sensory stimuli (recognizing your thoughts, breathing, sensations and feelings in your body) and remaining “in the present.”

Mindfulness was first adapted in Eastern Buddhist meditation but does not necessarily relate to any religion – basically anybody can benefit greatly from Mindfulness.

Origins of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program

Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn developed the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program in 1979 at the University of Massachusetts to treat his patients, which triggered its popularity as an alternative application in the mainstream medical world. Philosophies from the East have greatly influenced much of its inception, notably through Buddhism. Although it was initially regarded as part of the philosophies of Buddhism, there are no religious components to Mindfulness, and it is often treated as separate of any religious or cultural associations.

Mindfulness — A Way to Reduce Stress

Mindfulness can be beneficial in breaking off introspection over things, events or people that induce stress; it can also keep people away from dwelling on negative thoughts. It can also give you a better perspective on things and lessen anxiety in the long term. Continued practice of Mindfulness meditation can greatly improve an individual’s physical and mental wellbeing.

If you get distracted during your mindfulness practice, you can just notice and take yourself back to your practice and continue to be mindful. You can practice mindfulness any time and any where from brushing your teeth to doing household chores – you simply bring your attention to the present moment and notice your breathing, thoughts, body sensations and emotional tone.