What exactly is this mindfulness thing, and why is it so popular?

If you’re new to mindfulness, you might think it’s just about sitting still or clearing your mind—but it’s much more than that. Mindfulness is the evidence-based practice of being fully present in the moment with awareness and without judgment. Research shows it’s a powerful tool for reducing stress, managing anxiety, and improving focus.

One reason mindfulness is so popular today is the growth in recent years of high-quality research studies involving mindfulness as a taught course and practice.

Over forty years ago, an 8-week mindfulness program was developed at the University of Massachusetts Medical School by a scientist and meditator, Jon Kabat-Zinn. Early research on the program showed many potential benefits from reducing stress to managing physical pain.

Since that time, this program has been expanded and developed upon, with more and more research in recent years.

Jon Kabat-Zinn, Founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program

“Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgementally.”

Janice Marturano, Founder, Institute for Mindful Leadership

“We have this innate capacity in our minds to reflect—to actually allow that inner wisdom to arise and to help us make conscious choices.”