What is Mindfulness?

Do you know that feeling when the brain goes on autopilot and suddenly your home from work without much recollection of the drive, or you’ve finished off an entire bag of potato chips before noticing the empty bag. These are examples of what mindfulness is NOT.

When we train the mind to become more mindful, we give our brain permission to be in the present moment. Practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditating or intentionally directing the mind’s awareness at one specific object (such as the breath or a candle’s flame) allows us the opportunity to explore emotions and thoughts that arise within, without experiencing an outward adverse reaction.

When an individual has a regular mindfulness or meditation practice, the benefits extend to their community as well. Meditation is thought to improve self-awareness and communication skills, reduces stress, strengthen concentration, and expand attention span. Why wouldn’t you want members of your tribe partaking in a meditation sessions after a lunch break or before team meetings?