Mindfulness is both a mental state and the practice of turning oneself over to whatever is being experienced in the present moment, both internally and externally, without judgement.

Those who practice mindfulness learn how to observe their thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations and occurrences in the environment without responding or reacting critically. By just learning to be with what is, individuals can gain distance on distressing thoughts and emotions, and learn to observe the transient nature of these experiences. Research supports mindfulness as a practice that reduces stress, increases emotion regulation and actually changes the brain’s functioning to support mind-body integration. Those who regularly practice mindfulness display a better ability to make conscious life choices and to react more resiliently to the demands of life.