Mindfulness

Abstract

The concept of mindfulness has been subject to various definitions. In general, the term has been used to refer to interventions that focus on maintaining purposeful attention to the present moment, without judgment. It has been described as a way of being, rather than a way of doing. Mindfulness is also characterized by an open, receptive attitude. Additional key elements of mindfulness include an ability to recognize and label one’s emotions, the development of more refined self-awareness, and movement towards becoming more responsive and less reactive. Some scholars have distinguished between mindfulness interventions and concentrative meditations, such as Transcendental Meditation. Concentrative meditations are distinguished by their focus on a specific stimulus, such as breathing, and a refocusing on that stimulus when attention drifts from it.