Mindfulness is the practice of maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment.
At its core, mindfulness involves intentionally focusing on the present moment without judgment. Sounds easy?
Not at all, because the judgment comes constantly. My mindfulness experience was transformative—it felt like a fog had lifted, allowing me to find joy in life’s simple moments: commuting by train 🚆, having a cup of tea 🍵, or simply appreciating the sunlight ☀️ or even gloomy ☁️ weather. I became more aware of my emotions, learning to respond rather than react to stress at work or home. It was a liberating and life-changing experience.
How mindfulness helps in life?
Mindfulness promotes self-awareness, emotional regulation, and mental clarity. By anchoring attention to the present, it can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance resilience.
Stress reduction
Mindfulness reduces the body’s stress response by lowering levels of cortisol, the hormone linked to stress.
A 2018 study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology ( found that an eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program significantly decreased cortisol levels in participants.
Improves Mental Health
Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2014 found that mindfulness meditation programs improved anxiety, depression, and pain among participants.
Boosts Focus and Productivity
Mindfulness can sharpen attention and improve cognitive flexibility. A 2010 study in Psychological Science demonstrated that even two weeks of mindfulness training enhanced working memory and reduced mind-wandering.
Supports Physical Health
Practicing mindfulness has tangible physical health benefits. For example, it can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms of chronic illnesses.