Frequently Asked Question
You can find Frequently Asked Questions about Mindfulness and Indonesian Mindfulness on this page.
What is Mindfulness
Mindfulness is self-awareness to the present moment in a way that involves acceptance, non-judgment, curiosity, and observation. More specifically, it refers to techniques that allows us to slow down and observe our thoughts and feelings, without getting caught up in them. It often includes paying attention to the breath, or taking deep, calming breaths. See the details on What is Mindfulness page.
Where does the concept of Mindfulness come from?
Mindfulness has its roots in Buddhism where it is traditionally associated with the peaceful contemplation of Buddhist monks. It became a secular practice in the 1980s with Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program.
Today, mindfulness training is recognized worldwide as a distinctive method for handling emotions such as relieving pain, anxiety and depression; developing social and emotional skills in students; counseling at-risk people; and treating drug addiction.
What is involved in Mindfulness training?
Mindfulness training can include the following activities:
- Mindfulness knowledge
- Mindfulness skill:
- Mindful breathing exercises & experiences
- Mindful journalling excercise
- Observing the sensory & emotional sensation experiences
- Class evaluation as required
How is Mindfulness practiced?
Mindfulness is practiced by focusing your full attention on whatever is happening in the moment with clarity and acceptance. Many people learn mindfulness through a variety of meditation techniques, but it can also be learned on one’s own through precise, accurate attention to ALL of one’s experiences – physical sensations and perceptions, thoughts, and emotions – as they occur moment-by-moment. Mindful attention is especially important with experiences we find difficult or unpleasant. Mindfulness increases our ability to see what is actually happening, and more importantly, our reactions to what is happening, clearly, and therefore to work more skillfully with the inevitable difficulties of life.
How long does it take to become mindful?
Mindfulness is a lifelong process of betterment. When practicing mindfulness it is important to remember that there are no mindful people; there are people who practice mindfulness and behave mindfully. Consciously practicing mindfulness enhances perception and awareness over time because undivided attention makes mindful moments seem fuller, richer, clearer, more vibrant or piercing, more poignant and alive.
How can Mindfulness improve our decision-making skills?
Mindfulness training promotes an awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings, and creates a calmness that increases our ability to observe the details of situations and distance ourselves from our emotions. When we are calm and observant, we are more likely to envision alternative choices and also consider how our actions will affect ourselves and other people, so we can act with intention instead of reacting automatically.
What is benefit of practicing mindfulness?
- Improved social skills
When you are in a mindful state, your head is no longer filled with scenarios – the past (“what did she mean when she said that?”) or things that haven’t happened yet (“what will they think if you say this?”). - Improved creativity
If you work or do other creative work, you’ve probably noticed that your best work comes out of you when you’re not thinking too much. - You appreciate your world more
In the moments when you are mindful, the ordinary world becomes more interesting and amazing. - Stress release
Tools and exercises used to reduce and manage a person’s stress levels. - Less overthinking & less mind wandering
Both of these things work a lot in practices like meditation and mindfulness to help us be more present and aware in the moment. - Openness & Compassionate
Accept the present experience without judgment, and welcome any thoughts or feelings with an open and accepting attitude. - Playfulness
Responds to new or routine experiences with curiosity and joy, treating the present moment with light, childlike wonder.
What is the difference between Mindfulness and Meditation?
Mindfulness is the intention to be present in the here and now, fully engaged in whatever is happening, free from distraction or judgement, with a soft and open mind. Meditation is the simple exercise to familiarise oneself with the qualities of mindfulness.
Is Mindfulness related to religion?
Mindfulness is not a religion and there is no necessary religious component to mindfulness. Anyone, with any belief system, can enjoy the benefits of mindfulness.
Who can benefit from Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is for everyone from all walks of life, young or old: counselors, teachers, social workers, parents, students, patients, managers, employees, artists, etc.
