Everyday Mindfulness: More Accessible Than You Think

Abstract

Mindfulness, sati, remains a component of Vipassana and Samatha yoga that has been retained by Western culture both on and off the mat. It invites practitioners to focus on an internal awareness of constructed experiences [1]. Depending on the personal foundation for the practice, the intention of mindfulness is for ultimate liberation or, as seen primarily in Western practice, psychological or physical symptom management [2]. While there are many benefits of a mindfulness practice, there remain many barriers to incorporating it into an American lifestyle. Barriers to exploring a mindful practice could be seen in the roots of the practice itself. The Buddhist spiritual and religious underlying assumptions of mindfulness might be a deterrent for some. Furthermore, the Western expectations for rigorous work schedules and an emphasis on productivity and “doing” rather than “being” can result in a lack of time for a formal mindfulness practice. However, the psychological and physical benefits of mindfulness outweigh the barriers to practicing. Mindfulness can exist within and without Buddhism. An effective mindfulness practice is also accessible to Westerners within schedules where time is sparse for a formal practice. Mindfulness Effectiveness Within and Outside Buddhism