What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness, as defined by the American Psychological Association, is defined as a moment-to-moment awareness of one’s experiences without judgment.
The Mindful Order of Being defines mindfulness as “The capacity to observe one’s thoughts and emotions allowing for presence, calm and compassion.”
How does Mindful Order of Being teach mindfulness?
The Mindful Order of Being takes a practical approach to teaching mindfulness that can be used in the modern-day world we live in. We have a particular focus on leaders, both aspiring and experienced, but seek to help all in need of greater clarity, purpose and stress reduction.
Is mindfulness religious?
No. Mindfulness is a way of thinking, a set of values and for many a life philosophy. In Japan, for example, the main religion is Shintoism but the life system is Zen Buddhism (a.k.a. Zen Mindfulness). In this way, mindfulness is complementary and supportive of all religions. Most prayers, rituals and interpersonal work found in religious practices are their own manifestation of being mindful. India’s practice of Hindu and meditation would be yet another example of coexistence.
Yet, mindfulness also can be a source of deep spiritual grounding for those seeking such a path.
Does mindfulness mean Buddhism?
No. Mindfulness has roots in the many forms of Buddhist meditation. Zen, Vipassana and Tibetan are the most common forms for meditation and are often taught as ways to attain a more mindful state. But mindfulness, as used in common modern-day vernacular, is not a veiled form of Buddhism, although many of the teaching and practices are derived from some Buddhist techniques.
Is meditation the same as mindfulness?
No. Meditation is a practice that allows for the greater attainment of a mindful state. But mindfulness is a state of being that permeates beyond the meditative state. They are very much part of the same practice but are not synonymous.
Is there scientific proof that mindfulness works?
Yes. There is now over a decade of research on mindfulness that empirically proves the physiological changes in the brain and body chemistry, creating long-term sustainable improvements in overall health and mental well-being.
Why is there so much talk about mindfulness?
There has been a significant increase in awareness of mindfulness, coming from many modern sources, such as Arianna Huffington and her Huffington Post. Google and its ‘Search Inside Yourself’ Mindfulness training, and other large audience media outlets such as CNN and the New York Times have also raised the profile for modern-day mindfulness.
Many have found the mainstream press about mindfulness a bit much. And we agree. Yet, the benefits of awareness about a possible path to reducing stress and simplifying our lives far outweighs the slight annoyance of media overload.
How does Mindful Order of Being differ from others?
Mindful Order of Being takes a practical approach to teaching mindfulness, so it is relatable and usable in our modern-day lives – making it easy, accessible and simple for all to learn.
In many ways, it’s similar to many teachings of meditation and mindfulness as they will, if taught correctly, all have similar foundations. Yet, it differs since it comes from the paradigm of real-world experiences of heavy workloads and the stressful environment of the world we live in. Mindful Order of Being’s training is built from a leader and entrepreneur’s perspective, versus that of a life coach or psychotherapist.
When is a good time to start practicing mindfulness?
Now. If you feel the stress, strain and drain of modern life, there’s no better time than now to start becoming aware of what mindfulness can do to improve your state of being.
Is mindfulness for me?
Yes. Anyone can learn and improve their quality of life at nearly any age. Mindfulness is taught around the world to children as well as aging adults. We all can use the techniques to build a life practice of mindfulness.
I already meditate, do I really need more?
Yes. We can always improve. Finding new ways to leverage mindfulness or different meditation techniques can train your mind’s attention and focus skills. There are few that are above gaining value from further mindfulness support.
I practice yoga, do I need mindfulness?
Yes. Practicing yoga is a great window into the world of mindfulness with introductory breathing techniques, quiet sitting and focused poses. But it is not mindfulness itself. In other words, if you enjoy yoga, you’ll love mindfulness – and benefit from both.
How long does it take to learn mindfulness?
A day – and a lifetime. Breathing mindfully for even a few deep breaths is how simple it is to start applying mindfulness. But to attain a mind that has the strength to use mindfulness in everyday moment-to-moment situations takes practice, and yet only a few minutes each day will help you attain it.