What is Mindfulness?

Do you ever notice yourself operating on autopilot? You finish a meal and realize you don’t remember eating it. You arrive somewhere and don’t remember the drive. Our minds often wander away from what is happening in the present moment—this is a very common, default state of mind.

Research suggests that when our awareness is grounded in the present moment, we tend to feel more content—even if what’s happening is ordinary or unpleasant.

Mindfulness is the practice of bringing attention to the present moment with a quality of curiosity, openness, and non-judgment. It’s a simple idea, but not always easy to live. For many of us, meeting each moment with patient, accepting awareness can feel out of reach. The good news is that mindfulness can be learned—it simply takes practice.

You can be mindful while talking to a friend, folding laundry, or walking outside. But our minds are often pulled toward the past (rumination) or the future (worry and planning). While this is natural, it can distance us from the richness of our lives and, over time, erode our sense of connection, vitality, and meaning.

Mindfulness practice invites us into a gentler relationship with our minds, bodies, and lived experience. With time, it can support a sense of steadiness and freedom—even in the midst of difficulty. While it may be easier to stay present during pleasant moments, mindfulness helps us build the capacity to remain with more challenging emotions and experiences with compassion and care.

What is Meditation?

The mind can be trained, much like a muscle. Meditation is the practice that strengthens our ability to stay present.

At its core, meditation involves gently bringing attention to a chosen anchor in the present moment—often the breath—and returning to it again and again when the mind wanders. Rather than judging what arises (thoughts, emotions, sensations), we practice observing with curiosity and openness.

The mind will wander—that’s what minds do. Each time you notice this and return your attention, you are strengthening your capacity for awareness. Over time, this builds focus, flexibility, and a more compassionate relationship with your inner experience.

Why Learn to Meditate?

A growing body of research supports the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. Regular practice has been associated with reduced anxiety, improved mood, better sleep, and an increased sense of meaning and well-being.

In the context of therapy, mindfulness can be a powerful support. It helps us become more aware of our internal experience and creates space to respond more intentionally, rather than react automatically. At times, what arises in mindfulness practice can feel difficult—having support from a skilled therapist can help integrate these experiences in a way that supports healing and growth.

If you’re interested in research on meditation, I recommend the book Altered Traits by Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson.

Formal and Informal Mindfulness

Mindfulness can be cultivated through formal meditation practice, as well as informally throughout your day. Every moment offers an opportunity to return to awareness.

You might notice the sensations of your breath while waiting in line, the sounds around you when you’re feeling impatient, or the feeling of your body supported by a chair. You might slow down in conversation and listen more fully. Or, in moments of stress, you might pause, take a few breaths, and gently notice what is arising inside.

These small moments of awareness build capacity over time—supporting greater resilience, presence, and compassion in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient practice with roots in India that integrates physical movement, breath, meditation, and philosophical teachings. It developed alongside traditions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, as well as the holistic healing system of Ayurveda.

In Western contexts, yoga is often experienced through physical postures (asana). When practiced mindfully, these movements can support nervous system regulation, reduce tension, and enhance a sense of well-being. In many traditions, physical practice is understood as preparation for meditation—helping the body settle so the mind can become more still.

Yoga also supports what’s known as vagal tone, referring to the functioning of the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in the body’s ability to rest, regulate, and recover from stress.

Research suggests that yoga can reduce symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, improve mood, and support better sleep.

Closing

If you’re interested in learning more, I periodically offer introductory mindfulness and meditation classes, both virtually and in person. Please visit the Courses & Workshops page for current offerings.