Mindfulness
Information
Mindfulness is an ancient form of meditation that has roots in Eastern religions and traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity. However, mindfulness is not a religion and can be practised by anyone with or without religious beliefs, alone or as part of a group.
Mindfulness is simple and can be practiced at any time and location and does not need any special equipment. A basic mindfulness meditation takes a few minutes.
Select the underlined questions below to see more.
What is mindfulness?
Why should I try it?
Mindfulness reading
What is mindfulness?
A simple definition of mindfulness is developing the skill of noticing what is happening in the present moment in our internal and external environment – mind, body and surroundings.
When we are anxious and depressed we often react to our thoughts and feelings before we even know they are there. This can keep us locked in a cycle of distress.
Mindfulness teaches us to start noticing our present moment experience, including unwanted thoughts, feelings and sensations, which gives us the opportunity to respond to them in a less reactive, non-judgemental way. Eventually building our tolerance of sitting with distress.
Why should I try it?
Mindfulness has been proven in thousands of scientific studies to be effective in improving overall mental and physical wellbeing. It is now recommended in the National institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the management of depression, anxiety and chronic pain.
Mindfulness is the awareness that arises from paying attention on purpose, in the present moment (Jon Kabat-Zinn).
Mindfulness reading
- Finding peace in a Frantic World – Mark Williams and Danny Penman
- Mindfulness for Health, Surviving Pain, reducing stress and restoring wellbeing – Vidyamala Burch and Danny Penham
- A Mindfulness guide for survival – Ruby Wax
- A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled – Ruby Wax
- Mindfulness Plain and Simple – Oli Doyle
Coping with
Top tips for practising mindfulness
The following buttons are self-help suggestions
Finding help
Who can you talk to?
- Seek any local Mindfulness groups in your area
- Ask your GP for information
- Seek out Mindful practices in your area
Select the underlined topics below to view what resources are available.
Helpful websites or services
Useful apps and tools
Helpful websites or services
Useful apps and tools
Getting more help
If you haven’t already found the help you’re looking for, you can find additional information and services which are more interactive here.
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Local Services
Local Services
