Mindfulness-based Psychotherapy
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a popular term in the self-help world, but is a term that's often confusing for some people. Essentially, mindfulness is the ability to be fully present and aware of what we’re doing - of where we are, of whom we’re with - in any given moment. Further, it helps us stay connected to our physical selves. It’s an ability that we all have but one we don’t often cultivate. We can learn to cultivate this ability in many ways, most often through meditation, breathing, and learning to focus on what's happening - in your life, your mind, your heart.
So how can mindfulness help me?
To answer this, it’s helpful to know how not being mindful impacts us. Many of us live in the world in a reactive way in which we’re either reliving past pains or feeling anxious about future fears. This focus on the past or the future causes many of us to be sad, anxious, fearful, or angry. It can take away some of the joy in the present, or distract us from a present concern that needs our undivided attention. Who hasn’t felt overwhelmed by racing thoughts that feel like they’ll never end?
More mindful = less anxious, less stressed
When we’re mindful, we are often less stressed. When we’re mindful we have the focus to experience whatever joy is present, or whatever concern (without getting caught up in it). Performance can be enhanced. Insight and awareness, two tools that are very important for navigating this busy world, can be utilized. Essentially, mindfulness is the ability to train the mind to work differently, to work in concert with the world instead of battling it. “The mind is a dangerous place. Don’t go in alone”…With mindfulness, you’re not alone. You learn skills to lessen anxiety, and relieve or prevent depression.
We would welcome hearing from you if you'd like to learn more about how mindfulness can help you.