What mindfulness isn't

I think it’s important to explain what mindfulness isn’t. It isn’t sitting cross legged in a zen like state with no thoughts appearing in your mind at all. Firstly being cross legged on the floor isn’t comfortable for most people!

Secondly we all have thoughts, a fairly constant stream of them. Often by trying to ignore of push them away they just get louder. Instead you could choose to treat them kindly, say they aren’t needed now and watch them drift away again. Like watching that train leave the station, or a leaf float on past you down a river.

Mindfulness is a practice, gradually changing our brains (and it really does change the structure of our brains and how the brain regions connect to each there over time. So gradually we can find it easier and easier to just be; to be less reactive, a bit less stressed or overwhelmed, and show ourselves a little more care and gentleness.