What is Mindfulness?
By Dr Stan Steindl
Mindfulness has become a widely recognised and valued approach in modern psychology, wellbeing, and everyday life. But what exactly is it? At its core, mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and compassion—rather than being caught up in the past or worrying about the future.
Rooted in ancient contemplative traditions and supported by contemporary science, mindfulness is a skill that can help us manage stress, improve focus, and cultivate emotional balance. It’s not about “emptying your mind” or escaping reality—it’s about becoming more aware of your experience, just as it is.
“Mindfulness invites us to meet the moment with kindness, no matter what it brings,” says Dr Stan Steindl, Clinical Psychologist. “That includes pleasant moments, painful ones, and everything in between.”
The Essence of Mindfulness
Jon Kabat-Zinn, one of the pioneers of secular mindfulness in healthcare, defines mindfulness as:
“Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgementally.”
This practice helps people observe their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without immediately reacting or getting swept away. It offers a space between stimulus and response—a space in which we can choose how to respond with greater wisdom and care.
How Mindfulness Works
When we practise mindfulness, we shift from automatic pilot—the mode of rushing, multitasking, and reacting—to intentional awareness. This shift helps regulate the nervous system and brings calm, clarity, and perspective.
Mindfulness typically involves:
- Attention training – Focusing on an anchor, such as the breath or bodily sensations.
- Open awareness – Noticing whatever is present in the mind or body with acceptance.
- Nonjudgemental attitude – Letting go of criticism or striving, and allowing things to be as they are.
- Returning gently – Each time the mind wanders (as it will), gently returning to the present.
It’s a practice of coming back, again and again, to the here and now.
“Mindfulness isn’t about doing it perfectly,” Dr Steindl notes. “It’s about noticing, returning, and beginning again—over and over.”
Benefits of Mindfulness
A growing body of research shows that mindfulness can support mental and physical health in a variety of ways. Some of the evidence-based benefits include:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved emotional regulation
- Greater focus and concentration
- Increased self-awareness and empathy
- Better sleep and physical wellbeing
- Enhanced resilience and coping
These effects are often cumulative—the more regularly mindfulness is practised, the more noticeable the benefits become.
Mindfulness in Therapy
Many modern therapies incorporate mindfulness, including:
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) – Prevents relapse in depression by combining mindfulness with cognitive strategies.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Uses mindfulness to help people stay present and act in line with their values.
- Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) – Integrates mindfulness as part of soothing system activation and emotional regulation.
In therapy, mindfulness is often introduced through guided exercises, such as:
- Breathing practices
- Body scans
- Mindful walking
- Mindful eating
- Noting thoughts and emotions with curiosity
It’s also used informally—encouraging clients to bring mindful awareness to everyday activities like brushing teeth, drinking tea, or taking a shower.
Common Misconceptions
Mindfulness is often misunderstood. Some common myths include:
- “I need to clear my mind.”[Text Wrapping Break]Not at all—mindfulness is about noticing what’s there, not removing it.
- “I have to feel calm.”[Text Wrapping Break]Mindfulness isn’t about feeling a certain way; it’s about noticing how you feel with gentleness.
- “It takes too much time.”[Text Wrapping Break]Even a few mindful breaths or a one-minute pause can make a difference.
“Mindfulness isn’t a special state—it’s a way of relating to whatever state you’re in,” Dr Steindl explains. “That’s what makes it so accessible and powerful.”
Is Mindfulness Right for You?
Mindfulness can be practised by people of all ages and backgrounds. You don’t need to be spiritual or have lots of free time. All it takes is a willingness to slow down, tune in, and be kind to yourself in the process.
It can be especially helpful if you:
- Feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed
- Get caught in overthinking or rumination
- Want to be more present with your loved ones
- Are curious about cultivating self-awareness and calm
Final Thoughts
In a fast-paced world filled with noise and distraction, mindfulness offers a gentle invitation to return—to the breath, the body, and the present moment. It’s not about escaping life, but meeting it more fully, one moment at a time.
“Mindfulness gives us back the ability to pause, to notice, and to choose,” Dr Steindl reflects. “And within that pause lies the possibility of living with greater compassion and clarity.”
If you’re curious about mindfulness, consider exploring it with the guidance of a psychologist or through a structured mindfulness course. As with any skill, it gets easier—and more rewarding—the more you practise.