How “Mindful” are You?

How “Mindful” are You?

by Shelly Wilson

At the heart of any spiritual practice is the cultivation of mindfulness – the direction of one’s full attention to a single object or activity, such as breathing, walking, or preparing a meal, for a sustained period of time. In doing so, being mindful, we counter the mind’s tendency to dart off distractedly in random directions.

 
Definition of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is being aware of, or bringing attention to, this moment in time, deliberately, and without judging the experience. Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh (Tik · N’yat · Hawn), is a spiritual leader, author, poet, and peace activist, who is respected throughout the world for his powerful teachings on mindfulness and peace. Among his many important teachings is that in order to heighten one’s awareness, it is essential to be mindful of all that is experienced in each and every moment. He teaches that incorporating enhanced awareness into our daily life will ultimately enrich our lives. He states, “Through mindfulness, we can learn to live happily in the present moment, which is the only way to truly develop peace, both in one’s self and in the world.”

The Plum Village.org website talks about mindfulness as, “the energy of being aware and awake to the present moment. It is the continuous practice of touching life deeply in every moment of daily life. To be mindful is to be truly alive, present and at one with those around you and with what you are doing. We bring our body and mind into harmony while we wash the dishes, drive the car or take our morning shower.”

 
Activities to Assist with Practicing Mindfulness

Aspects of the art of mindful living include walking meditation, sitting meditation, eating meditation, total relaxation, working meditation and stopping, smiling, and breathing mindfully. Practicing mindfulness while folding clothes, washing dishes, pulling weeds, or any other task enables you to consciously be in the moment. Whatever you do as a daily practice, you can do mindfully.