What is Mindfulness?

There are two aspects to practising psychological "mindfulness."

The first is to pay attention to each thought, feeling or sensation as it arises, without judgement and without trying to explain or understand.

It can be helpful to describe these in words to yourself. Or you can describe your experiences in a journal and follow a train of thought and see where it leads to.

This is sometimes described as 'noticing thoughts and sensations as though watching clouds pass across the sky.'

The second important element is to adopt a particular attitude of curiosity, openness and warmth and acceptance and to one's experiences in the present moment. Of course, this can all be very challenging and takes time and practice.

Paying attention to your breathing is also helpful while you practice mindfulness.