Monday, December 30, 2024

Mindless mindfulness

Once again this morning I heard the term mindfulness. I’ve had a vague notion what it was about, but I decided to look it up.

Mindfulness is a mental practice that emphasizes moment-by-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment. It encourages individuals to observe their internal states without judgment or reactivity, fostering a state of calm and clarity. 

Ah, so basically not having your head up your ass?

I think I’ve been mindful most of my life without ever being taught about it. I suspect it’s the natural way of being—the demeanor—for some people. Calm, observant, not overly distracted.

Decades ago some coworkers were getting heavily into meditation. They talked me into joining in with them. I asked the guru-like person leading the meditation, “In what ways does one change when they meditate?” 

“It can reduce stress, help manage anxiety, relieve depression, and enhance emotional well-being.”



“I’m an easy-going guy. I’m not particularly stressed, anxious, or depressed. I think my emotional well-being is okay.”

He replied, “Then you probably don’t need meditation.”

Now, I was a mental and emotional mess when I was a kid, mostly because I was new at this Life thing. And I was powerless. And frustrated. And easily embarrassed. But things changed in my twenties, largely because I had control of my life. And largely because of my demeanor.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m glad there are things that help stressed, anxious, depressed people with racing minds. I would love it if everyone was at peace with themself and the world. Do whatever works for you. For me, it’s usually taking a nap.

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