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Mindfulness - the word seems to be everywhere. People pose in the lotus position on Instagram, apps promise inner peace and even supermarkets now sell 'mindful' products. But what is it anyway? And what does it really do?
What is mindfulness actually?
Mindfulness means consciously perceiving the moment without judging it. Sounds simple. But is it? When you drink a cup of tea, how often do you actually think about its smell? How often do you eat while looking at your phone without noticing how your food tastes? How often are you already thinking about the next to-do or the last discussion while you're out walking? This is exactly where mindfulness comes in.
It's about being present in the moment. You can also describe it like this: Mindfulness means observing all emotions with curious detachment - both the good and the bad. Instead of losing yourself in euphoric highs or drowning in stress, you can simply notice: “Ah, interesting, I'm really happy right now” or “Oh, interesting, this thought is really stressing me out right now.” It's not about suppressing emotions, but about giving them space without judging them.
Why mindfulness is so hyped
Mindfulness is not a new concept. It originates from meditative traditions such as Buddhism, where it has been practised for centuries. Western science has also long since taken up the topic. Studies show that people who regularly practise mindfulness are less stressed and more emotionally stable. In addition, self-efficacy, i.e. the belief in one's own ability to overcome challenges, is strengthened through mindfulness.
This is because mindfulness makes you more aware of how you react to stress and difficult situations. Instead of automatically falling into old patterns, you can pause and act with consideration.
But beware: mindfulness is not a product
Here comes the critical part: mindfulness is now also a business. Apps, courses, expensive yoga mats - the capitalist machinery has long since struck. But you don't need an app, retreats or designer meditation cushions to be mindful. You already have everything you need: your breath, your senses and the moment you are in.
Three simple exercises for everyday life
If you're thinking, “Sounds good, but how do I start?”, here are a few simple ideas:
1. Observing Your Breath
Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Feel the air moving in and out through your nose. Don’t try to control it – just observe. If your mind starts to wander, gently guide your attention back to your breath.
2. Sensory Awareness
Grab a raisin, a piece of chocolate, or some fruit. Take a close look at it: notice its color, shape, and texture. Smell it before placing it in your mouth. Chewing? Not yet! First, feel how it sits on your tongue and observe how the taste evolves.
3. Walking Meditation
Take a few steps, slowly and mindfully. Notice how your feet touch the ground, how your body moves with each step. Synchronize your steps with your breathing. If your thoughts wander, bring your focus back to the sensations of walking.
Conclusion: Back to Basics
Mindfulness isn’t a magic cure, but it’s a powerful tool. It helps you experience the present moment more consciously, feel less stressed, and see life with greater clarity. The best part? You don’t need anything but yourself and the moment. Mindfulness begins right here – right now.
