What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness refers to a state of complete awareness of our surroundings, actions, mind, body, thoughts, and emotions. It is the quality of being fully present. In mindfulness, one is not overly reactive or overwhelmed by the external surroundings.
The Science Behind
Mindfulness based interventions have a profound impact upon the health and well being of the person. Research supports that mindfulness based stress reduction programs are highly effective, and promote the capacity of a person to respond to stress, pain, and severe chronic illness. When mindfulness practice was introduced in the medical setting, among patients suffering from chronic and debilitating conditions such as chronic pain improved considerably, proving that it offers pain alleviation benefits.
Mindfulness based therapies are also used for treating mental illnesses such as depression. Many researches are underway on the effectiveness of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). One study published in 2008 indicates that MBCT reduces the rate of relapse by 50% among patients who suffer from recurrent depression. It is also effective in treating anxiety. Researchers found that going through mindfulness meditation programs effectively reduces the negative components of psychological stress
A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine showed that meditators who went through an eight-week mindfulness training program had significantly more flu antibodies than their non-meditating peers after they received a flu vaccine. Not only did they show an elevated antibody response to immune system challenges, there was also improved positive feelings. This improvement in immune system function can also explain the healing found in the psoriasis treatment studies with mindful reflection during treatment.
Mindfulness practice can prevent the decline in body and mind due to ageing and stress. There is evidence to suggest that mindfulness practitioners are protected from grey matter deterioration. It is found to significantly improve attention in older adults, and stop diminishing cognitive abilities. It also improves clarity and focus, enhancing self awareness and cognitive flexibility. Seasoned mindfulness practitioners experience less mind wandering, and are able to carry out tasks with less distraction. Mindfulness can improve heart-health, and also enhances the treatment for mental health. It imparts self confidence and leadership, along with your mood. Sleep was also found to significantly improve upon mindfulness practice.
How To Attain Mindfulness?
Meditation mindfulness is a path to achieve the complete state of awareness. It is an exploration of the ‘now’, the present as it exists. We become aware of the workings of our mind, each sensations, emotions, and thoughts. Mindfulness meditation stops us from judging the workings of the mind, and to accept everything as they are, in its natural form. By unleashing our natural curiosity, we allow ourselves to show ourselves and others acceptance, warmth, and kindness. The awareness can be achieved by focussing on our breathing, and regular mindfulness practice. There are many tested mindfulness practices and programs which give you the best results.
The Hundred Wellness Centre in Dubai specialises in a variety of mind-body training, and treatments to assist you in your journey of healthy living. Our yoga and meditation practice involves guiding the respiratory system above its normal limit, stretching it, speeding it up and slowing it down in order to experience the full range of respiration. The class strengthens the physical body, and mental health, by teaching us how to become aware of and regulate your breath throughout all activities and emotions.
