Mindfulness is a universal human capacity that transcends culture and religion. It is an inherent aspect of being human, a state of awareness accessible to all of us.
Dr. Kabat-Zinn, the founder of the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at UMass Medical School, defines mindfulness as…
Awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and nonjudgmentally.
According to Kabat- Zinn the seven (7) key attitudes of mindfulness are:
#1 Beginner’s Mind
Remaining open and curious allows us to be receptive to new possibilities and prevent us from getting stuck in the rut of our own expertise
#2 Non-judging
Be an impartial witness to your own experience. Become aware of the constant stream of judging and reacting to inner and outer experience
#3 Patience
A form of wisdom, patience demonstrates that we accept the fact that things sometimes unfold in their own time. Allow for this.
#4 Acceptance
When you accept your current situation without wishing it was different or trying to change it, you’re able to be more aware of what you are experiencing at that moment.
#5 Letting Go
When you pay attention to your inner experience, you discover there are certain thoughts, emotions and situations the mind wants to hold onto. Let your experience be what it is right now
#6 Non- Striving
The goal is to be with yourself right here, right now. Pay attention to what is unfolding without trying to change anything
#7 Trust
Develop a basic trust with yourself and your feelings. Know it’s ok to make mistakes. Be receptive to what you learn from others, but firstly, learn to listen and trust yourself.
By practising the seven essential attitudes of mindfulness, one can enhance their awareness of the present moment and potentially alleviate feelings of anxiety
