What is mindfulness?

You might have heard people talk about mindfulness as something which can help with mental health and wellbeing. But what exactly is mindfulness?

What is mindfulness?

Put simply, it’s all about paying attention to the present moment. We often live on auto-pilot, but mindfulness is about taking time to notice the world around us, as well as our own thoughts and feelings.

Meditation can be a form of mindfulness, but you don’t have to meditate to be mindful. Try it yourself by noticing different sensations as you do an everyday task, such as eating or going for a walk.

Why is it helpful?

It can help people to disengage from negative thoughts and feelings. By being present in the moment, you are less likely to be reliving past problems or worrying about the future.

Who can benefit?

Mindfulness is recommended in national health guidelines for people who have had repeated bouts of depression, but you may find it useful even if this doesn’t apply to you.

How can I be more mindful?

Have a go at our ten top tips:

1. Throughout the day, take a few moments to bring attention to your breathing. Observe five mindful breaths.

2. Notice your body while you walk or stand. Take a moment to notice your posture. Pay attention to the contact of the ground under your feet. Feel the air on your face, arms and legs as you walk.

3. As you sit at your desk or workstation, take a few moments from time to time to tune in to your body sensations. Simply be present in your body for a few moments.

4. When you have a break, instead of reading the paper or searching on the internet, get away from your computer – take a short walk and get outside if you can.

5. Pay attention to what you eat. Notice at least two bites. Meditate on at least the first bite and the last bite of every meal.

6. Tune into a routine activity like brushing your teeth, putting on your shoes or washing up, paying full attention to the sensations occurring within this.

7. Notice sounds around you: cars, birds singing, phones ringing and people talking. Take a few moments to really listen to these.

8. Before rushing automatically from one activity to another, pause. Check into your body and notice how it feels at this point of transition, any sense of urgency, of being driven. Take the opportunity to breath before moving into the next task.

9. Use your journey home as a way of making a transition. Walk or drive mindfully. Take your time.

10. Before you go to sleep at night, take a few minutes and bring attention to your breathing. Observe five mindful breaths.

Where can I find out more?

The Nottingham Centre for Mindfulness provides training on Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, for those working in health services or with the public.

NHS Choices has information on mindfulness and other wellbeing advice.

If you think you could benefit from mindfulness to treat depression or other difficulties you are experiencing, you can refer yourself to our Let’s Talk Wellbeing service.