What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness, according to Jon Kabat-Zinn, is "paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally." Basically, it is about being fully in the present and embracing your current experiences without holding on, pushing away, or needing to distract yourself from reality. Mindfulness is not associated with any particular religion or specific belief systems, though various kinds of meditation and contemplative practices can be found in all of the world wisdom traditions.
Mindfulness can be thought of as a characteristic, like patience, that some people have more of than others. The good news is that by training in mindful awareness practices like yoga, meditation, and mindful eating, one can develop the skill of mindfulness and begin to incorporate it into daily life. As people increase in mindfulness, they tend to cope better with stress, feel more joy and peace, be kinder to themselves and others, and, in general, lead happier and healthier lives.
Resources
Attend a mindfulness retreat at the Insight Meditation Society
Read research related to mindfulness
Listen to free talks related to mindfulness and meditation
Mindfulness can be thought of as a characteristic, like patience, that some people have more of than others. The good news is that by training in mindful awareness practices like yoga, meditation, and mindful eating, one can develop the skill of mindfulness and begin to incorporate it into daily life. As people increase in mindfulness, they tend to cope better with stress, feel more joy and peace, be kinder to themselves and others, and, in general, lead happier and healthier lives.
Resources
Attend a mindfulness retreat at the Insight Meditation Society
Read research related to mindfulness
Listen to free talks related to mindfulness and meditation