What is Mindfulness? An Attempt of an Explanation

The word ‘mindfulness’ is used so excessively these days that there might be some confusion as to what it actually means. There are ‘mindfulness’ calendars,cups,T-Shirts,keyrings.

I would like to attempt to give an answer to two frequently asked questions: “What is Mindfulness?” and “Why do you practice it?”.
Please keep in mind when reading this that this is only my personal view.

Maybe the best way to start is by explaining what mindfulness is NOT to me.

It is not a tool to improve an imperfect version of yourself. And it is certainly not an instrument to make you more efficient.

I am pointing this out since there seems to be a trend of big companies contributing to the exploitation of the earth’s resources offering ‘mindfulness’ course to reduce stress in their employees and improve efficiency. Yes, mindfulness can contribute immensely to stress reduction and help you focus. Both of these things are precious in themselves. But: mindfulness and ethics can not be separated.

Mindfulness is not only a stress-reduction-wellness-holiday, but a tool to reduce greed and confusion and enhance clarity. The Buddha, who is now himself so often reduced to a meaningless fashion gadget, would certainly not have advised to use mindfulness as a means of increasing profit and continue exploitation.

Another thing that mindfulness is NOT,is: yet another duty.

If meditation is a joyless burden, then it’s time for some changes in practice. Yes, it is important to practice regularly to feel the benefits of the practice. However, I believe in a way of practicing that almost ‘draws’ you to the cushion, rather than having to drag yourself onto it in order not to feel guilty.

So,if mindfulness isn’t all of that, then what IS it?

Mindfulness for me consists of a regular meditation practice – but one which is never harsh. This does not mean avoiding looking at what is unpleasant, but doing it in a way in which there is no extra judgement/pressure added. Looking at things as they are, whether pleasant or unpleasant and allowing them to be just that. Then, choosing if action is required/possible or if acceptance needs to be practiced. I am convinced that a harsh way of meditating can not lead to the generation of more kindness.

Secondly, I think that mindfulness practice always needs to aspire to dissolve the borders between ‘formal practice’ and ‘daily life’. To employ an exaggeration: What’s the point of sitting for an hour in meditation and then going out speeding to work in a big car, doing a job you hate, working for a company that directly or indirectly harms people?

Mindfulness, if practiced genuinely, makes us reflect on the choices we make in life.
It might not turn us into flawless, enlightened beings, but it will make us ask questions and in the best case, take actions that benefit ourselves and others.

This is, what mindfulness is to me: a powerful, liberating practice that has changed my life in many ways. It has taught me courage to change and kindness towards myself when I fail to do so. I am very far away from being liberated and will most likely never be, but I am now enjoying trying my best. Sometimes succeeding, often failing. And trying again. And again.

The American rapper 50 Cent named his immensely successful debut album ‘Get Rich or Die Trying’,a kind of antidote to liberation.

My mindfulness motto is: ‘Be Free or Die Trying’. And don’t forget to enjoy it.