Each of us has the capacity for learning and practicing mindfulness.
Mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment, with an attitude of non-judgment, joy and compassion. This skill of focusing can become a powerful tool to help us to more thoughtfully respond to situations as they arise, rather than impulsively reacting. With mindfulness we become empowered to take responsibility for our thoughts, actions, and emotions.
We can be mindful of just about everything. Many people initially hone their skills through mindfulness of the breath. You can try right now if you like. First, take three slow breaths, noticing what each breath feels like as it moves in and out of you. Continue to breathe normally, resting your attention on the feeling of your breath. See if you can notice things like the temperature of your breath and where in your body you feel it. If your mind starts to wander, gently come back to your breath.
Now pause for a moment to reflect on how you feel after this brief exercise. Regularly taking a few minutes each day to steady your mind on your breath can help train your brain to gather your attention and focus more readily. The more we practice, the stronger our attention and focus can grow. The same "magic" works on children too!
The skills I teach do not fall under any particular religious order. Though, greater compassion, empathy and directed awareness seem to be some of the overarching similarities shared among many religious traditions.
I was introduced to these techniques in a Buddhist context, however, the mindfulness and compassion training is also found in Christian, Jewish, Hindu, and secular traditions.
