Mindfulness and meditation often appear used interchangeably. But are they really the same thing?
They are related – but not identical.
Mindfulness is a quality, an experience. It is a way of being, of relating to yourself and your environment. John Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, defined it this way. ‘An awareness that arises though paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgementally.’
Meditation is a practice. There are many different techniques, and different approaches will suit different people. Some approaches involve sitting in a particular way, or focusing on an object eg the breath, a candle, or using a mantra. Other meditation practices involve movement, such as walking, and yoga can be practiced as a moving meditation.
You could say that meditation is a way to practice being mindful, a tool to develop mindfulness. However, it is not the only way.
Some therapies, for example, us exercises to help you be more mindful, without every introducing formal meditation.
There are many informal ways to practice mindfulness. You can engage in just about any day-to-day activity, slowing down, paying attention only to what you are doing. And in this way cultivate mindfulness. You can mindfully brush your teeth, for example, or make breakfast, or climb a flight of stairs. And if you sign up to my email, you can get a copy of my eBook on Informal Mindfulness.
Meditation is an exercise in ‘non doing’ – in becoming an observer of your inner world. Formal practice can provide a welcome, some would say necessary, retreat from the busyness of the world. A chance to rest your body and your mind. It can help you train your focus and attention, and so be more mindful in other aspects of your life.
There is not a right or a wrong way. Some people prefer to work alone, others in groups. Some prefer mindful activities; others find the formal practices the most supportive.
All the exercises and practices, formal and informal, can help you develop greater peace and calm in your own life.
