Mindfulness

Mindfulness, also sometimes referred to as “flexible awareness,” is a mental practice and a state of awareness that involves intentionally paying attention to the current moment without judgment. It is about fully engaging in the here and now, acknowledging and accepting one's thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment as they arise, without trying to change or react to them.

Key characteristics of mindfulness include:

 

• Present Moment Awareness: Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment, recognizing that the past is already gone and the future is yet to come. By being fully present, individuals can better appreciate their everyday life experiences and reduce the tendency to ruminate about the past or worry about the future.
   

• Non-Judgmental Awareness: Practicing mindfulness entails a self-awareness practice of observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations without labeling them as good or bad. It's about acknowledging these experiences with an attitude of acceptance and compassion to gain a deeper understanding of these thoughts and emotions rather than getting caught up in self-criticism or self-judgment.

 

• Acceptance: Mindfulness involves accepting things as they are, even if they are uncomfortable or challenging. Rather than trying to change or suppress difficult experiences, mindfulness encourages individuals to make space for themselves and allow them to come and go naturally in a supportive environment.

​

• Openness: Mindfulness fosters an attitude of openness and curiosity. It's about gaining a deeper understanding of whatever arises at the moment, including both pleasant and unpleasant experiences, with an attitude of interest and exploration.

​

• Shifting Attention: While being mindful or being “flexibly aware,” our minds may pull us away from what we are noticing in the present. Flexible awareness allows individuals to shift their attention intentionally and skillfully. This means choosing where to direct their focus and learning to gently redirect their attention when the mind wanders.

​

Mindfulness is a core component of various mindfulness-based interventions, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). By cultivating mindfulness and “flexible awareness,” individuals can flexibly respond to stress, reduce reactivity, and respond more skillfully to everyday life's challenges. It also contributes to enhanced emotional or mental health regulation, improved decision-making, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

​

Contact Blue Anchor Psychology Today

 

The team here at Blue Anchor Psychology utilizes many different mindfulness techniques in during our therapy services in our New York and New Jersey offices. Let us help you gain a better understanding of your mental health and heal. Contact us today!