Mindfulness and Meditation are similar, but they do have their differences.
Mindfulness includes active and passive outlets.
You can be mindful of washing dishes, talking to friends, driving, and exercising. Yoga is also about being in the present moment through movement.
What IS Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a state in which you are completely aware and present in the moment without judgment.
You can be mindful using all your senses- sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell, but you may not use all of them with meditation.
One might say that meditation is a formal practice whereas mindfulness is not.
Meditation can also make you more mindful as well.
The best way to capture moments is to pay attention. This is how we cultivate mindfulness.
-Jon Kabat-Zinn
What IS meditation?
The definition of meditation is to think deeply or focus the mind on something for an extended period of time.
Meditation is more “active” in the brain than mindfulness as you may not be “in the present” moment.
It can include contemplation, reflection, chanting, breathing, body awareness, and thought awareness- which means watching your thoughts, and it can also, often contain mindfulness.
Guided meditation is popular too
Many people meditate, to feel the physical benefits of relaxation and to calm the mind, or perhaps grow emotionally or spiritually.
So, now that you know the differences, what do you prefer? Mindfulness practice or Meditation practice. Or should I say both?
Take a deep breath in and exhale
So, before I go, listen closely and remember this ONE thing.
Your future is a thought, your past has passed, but your now is always here.
Be mindful-one minute at a time.
Hugs, Cheryl
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