Finding Mindfulness

“In a world full of doing doing doing, it’s important to take a moment to just be.
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What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is described by Jon Kabat-Zinn (1994) “as paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgementally”. While this ancient teaching has been around for thousands of years, it's adapted over the centuries to fit the needs of each generation and has metamorphosed into what seems to be the newest health trend we see today. While this buzzword was once only practiced my monks and spiritual seekers of enlightenment, it has now broken through the barriers of religious affiliations and has gained the attention of anyone looking for a happier and healthier way of life.

Thanks to scientific research, it’s been proven that Mindfulness can help improve the following areas:

  • Reduces anxiety
  • Physically rebuilds your brain
  • Improves our ability to focus and make decisions
  • Boosts creativity and problem solving
  • Cuts pain in half
  • Has the ability to prevent and treat depression
  • Increases body satisfaction
  • Leads to a healthier happier way of life

So now that we have a little understanding behind the history of mindfulness, let's take a more personal approach to the practice. We are all unique individuals and each one of us has come to this article with a different purpose and ideal of what we would like to get from this practice. Since all time is valuable, it's important to identify what it is exactly you would like to get in return for your commitment to a Mindfulness practice. Let’s take a moment to dive into what drives you and what a successful Mindfulness practice looks like to YOU!

HERE is a worksheet designed to help identify your values and goals while gaining some clarity around what exactly you are looking for from a regular mindfulness practice. I invite you to take 10-15 minutes out of your day to explore these questions and get your wheels turning around this topic. And remember, we are human beings that are constantly changing everyday and these answers are not set in stone. You are welcome to re-visit this worksheet whenever you like and change any of your responses at anytime.

Would you like to share any thoughts on this worksheet or practice? Do you have any questions or insights? Leave a comment! I know I’d love to hear from you and I’m sure your community does as well :)

Happy Reflecting!

-Katie Lavidge

Katie Lavidge