What Is Mindfulness—And Why Does It Matter for Your Wellbeing?

April 1, 2025
|In Mindfulness
|By Ashraf Monzer

What Is Mindfulness?

Benefits of mindfulness for mental and physical health

Mindfulness means becoming aware.
It’s that simple—and that profound.

But awareness of what?
That part is up to you.

Think of mindfulness like a flashlight you carry in your pocket. At any moment, you can choose to take it out and shine it somewhere. Wherever the light lands, things become visible—and from visibility, clarity begins.

Mindfulness is the light.
Your breath, body, emotions, thoughts, or even a difficult relationship can be the object of mindfulness.

Without an object to focus on, mindfulness is directionless. But when we bring attention to something intentionally, we begin to soften into the present moment.

What Does It Mean to Be Mindful?

Being mindful is the act of becoming aware.
When I become aware of my breath, for example, my body slowly begins to relax. My thoughts slow down. I start noticing what I’m feeling—maybe joy, sadness, tension, or calm.

From the breath, I can expand awareness to include my posture, the state of my muscles, or the emotions that surface beneath the surface.

This is not passive observation. It’s conscious noticing.
It’s being with what is, without needing to fix it.

How Do I Practice Mindfulness?

The good news? It’s not rocket science.

Mindfulness begins with a few quiet minutes. Sit upright in a chair or on a cushion. Close your eyes if that feels comfortable. Begin noticing your breath—just as it is.

You’ll get distracted. That’s normal.
Gently return your attention to the breath.
Inhale… Exhale…

This moment becomes a pause in your day. A reset. A return to yourself.

It may seem simple—too simple, even—but over time, it becomes a powerful anchor in your life.

Why Is Mindfulness Important?

Benefits of mindfulness for mental and physical health

In a world that pulls us in all directions, mindfulness brings us home.

It helps regulate your nervous system, ease stress, clarify your thoughts, and connect you with the stillness already within you.

Whatever is happening outside—mindfulness offers a way to stay grounded, present, and well.

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External Resources:

Zen & Engaged Buddhism:

Plum Village 

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