Mindfulness

While mindfulness originated in the religious and philosophic meditative traditions of India and Asia, it is not per se affiliated with any religious activity, nor does it require any religious adherence. If you haven’t noticed, mindfulness has found its way into apps, universities, medical clinics, counseling and social work, and popular culture. The scientific literature on its potential to improve mood, physical wellness, executive functions, interpersonal relationships, and the amelioration of trauma is prodigious. It is also a terrific way to get to know yourself, and the probable side-effects are increased productivity, creativity, and joy. Start small: 5 minutes, once a day, perhaps with an app or recording. Like anything worth doing, you’ll get out what you put in, and the benefits won’t be obvious or fast. Think of it like a diet: one salad won’t make you suddenly svelte, but a daily habit of health eating, over months and years, will certainly bear fruit.