Significance of Mindfulness
Synonyms: Awareness, Presence, Attentiveness, Consciousness, Focus, Contemplation, Meditation, Introspection, Awareness of the moment., Concentration
In Finnish: Mindfulness; In Swedish: Mindfulness; In Dutch: Aandacht; In Spanish: Consciencia; In German: Achtsamkeit; In Malay: Kesedaran; In French: Pleine conscience; In Finnish: Tietoinen läsnäolo; In Italian: Consapevolezza; In Portugese: Atenção plena; In Polish: Uważność
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mindfulness'
Mindfulness in Buddhism is the practice of moment-to-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. It's a crucial factor for insight, spiritual development, and overcoming suffering. It involves being present and attentive, which helps in attaining enlightenment and right action.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The quality that the bhikkhus should be possessed of, along with diligence.[1] (2) A state of awareness that the Buddha maintained while lying down, keeping in mind the time of arising.[2] (3) Awareness and presence of mind that helps one remember and apply the teachings of past experiences in the journey towards enlightenment.[3] (4) A key aspect of the Buddha's teachings related to awareness and mental control.[4] (5) This refers to the practice of being aware and attentive to one's thoughts and actions, especially in the context of performing acts of generosity.[5]
From: Cetasikas
(1) The practice of being aware of only one reality at a time, such as a visible object, hardness, or seeing, to develop direct understanding.[6] (2) The sotapanna has developed the four applications of this, and thus has less conditions than the non-ariyan to worry about the past.[7] (3) The practice of being aware and attentive to the present moment, which is crucial for recognizing and overcoming the arising of akusala dhammas like conceit.[8] (4) The quality of being non-forgetful about what is wholesome and supporting the awareness of objects and reality in order to develop insight.[9] (5) The practice of being consciously aware of experiences and realities, which can counteract akusala factors like moha and uddhacca.[10]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Mindfulness returned to the Acariya after searching for the tiger, along with the realization that both knowing and delusion reside within oneself, not in external beings, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in practice.[11] (2) Mindfulness is a mental faculty used by practitioners to help them fight against kilesas and painful feelings, forming a crucial part of their spiritual training.[12] (3) Mindfulness is a factor that monks should do their duties without letting go of it, which is a factor of their Dhamma work, which is essential for examining and guarding themselves in various situations while standing, walking, sitting, lying down, eating and all others, including the various activities around the monastery such as sweeping the ground.[13] (4) Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of the present moment, and is essential during the process of eating food, which is an important routine for the Bhikkhus.[14] (5) This is the state of being aware and present at every moment, helping the citta stay focused and preventing it from being drawn to appealing, yet harmful, things.[15]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) It is a quality mentioned as essential for building an island that cannot be overwhelmed by floods, according to the verse's explanation.[16] (2) Awareness and focus on the present moment, crucial in developing concentration in meditation.[17] (3) The quality of being alert and present in one's actions, crucial for spiritual progress.[18] (4) The practice of being aware of the present moment, emphasized by the Buddha as crucial for recognizing the urgency of life and the approach of death.[19] (5) The quality of being aware and attentive, particularly in relation to Dhamma practice, as emphasized in the teachings.[20]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A state of awareness that is developed and repeatedly practiced, leading to benefits such as a supreme sense of urgency, benefit, surcease of bondage, and full awareness.[21] (2) It is defined as remembering, with a function of not forgetting. It is manifested as guarding, highlighting its role in maintaining awareness.[22] (3) The practice of maintaining attention on the present moment and being aware of one's thoughts and feelings.[23] (4) The continuous awareness of one's thoughts and actions, serving as a basis for controlling impulses and adhering to virtue.[24] (5) A state of well-established awareness that allows the meditator to review their meditation subjects effectively.[25]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Mindfulness is described as a practice that, when constant, leads to insight into anicca, dukkha, and anatta, and that is essential for developing keen perception.[26] (2) Mindfulness of mental events is practiced by noble ones in the formless worlds, enabling them to attain new insights and eventually become Arahats through mindfulness.[27] (3) Without it, illusions arise such as "It is the hand" or "It is a man"; the mindful practitioner sees things as they truly are.[28] (4) A meditative awareness of one’s thoughts, feelings, and senses, crucial for recognizing the nature of phenomena and achieving insight.[29] (5) The practice of being constantly aware and present in the moment, which helps in overcoming defilements and achieving enlightenment.[30]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Mindfulness of the present moment reduces attachment to how people behave towards us, and it is a key aspect of the development of insight and reducing reliance on external factors.[31] (2) The practice of being aware of the present moment, specifically the arising and falling away of nama and rupa.[32] (3) Sati; the state of being fully aware and present, crucial in both samatha and vipassana practices.[33] (4) Awareness of the present moment, which can help identify and diminish the impact of dosa.[34]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Mindfulness is a key element to be developed by the reader to put the gained knowledge into practice, as part of their duty to live in accordance with Dhamma.[35] (2) Mindfulness, also known as sati, can recall virtuous deeds and can be affected by sanna, but true mindfulness occurs only in the realm of good deeds, highlighting the interplay of these mental factors.[36] (3) This is also known as sati, and it appears with respect to appropriate objects in addition to the seven mental factors.[37] (4) Mindfulness, referred to as sati in Pali, encompasses recollecting, remembering, or being heedful, particularly with regard to wholesome matters.[38]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) It is a better equivalent for sati, which does not exactly correspond to the Western conception of memory.[39] (2) A mental state characterized by active, open attention on the present, crucial for meditation and insight.[40] (3) A state of awareness and attentiveness established through practices that encourage insight and understanding.[41]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Conscious awareness aimed at retaining good thoughts and actions.[42] (2) The practice of maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, and surrounding environment.[43]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The awareness and presence of mind cultivated by practitioners to remain focused and prepared for any challenges they may face.[44]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A state of being careful and calling up mindfulness while falling asleep, which prevents the emission of impurity.[45]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It is focused on the objects of knowledge and is also called foundations of mindfulness, a key concept.[46] (2) Mindfulness is a moral faculty that, when empowered, helps prevent negative dharmas from arising and gathers positive ones.[47] (3) The state of being aware and present, which is a key quality of the bodhisattva.[48] (4) The state of maintaining awareness and presence; the Bodhisattva's clarity contrasts with the disturbed state of ordinary beings.[49] (5) The awareness (smriti) that helps stabilize the mind when it sinks or is distracted during practice.[50]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) As you begin the meditations of the first of the five paths, you will practice the four applications of this, analyzing with this your body, your feelings, your mind, and all phenomena.[51] (2) As a beginner you need to apply mindfulness with effort and constantly remind yourself to infuse all your activities with bodhicitta.[52] (3) The quality of maintaining awareness, particularly focusing on bodhicitta and key teachings during practice.[53]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The practice of being present and self-aware, which is vital for spiritual growth and understanding.[54] (2) The practice of maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surroundings.[55]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The serpent stated that the lord of the monkeys had energy, intelligence, mindfulness and wisdom.[56] (2) This denotes the practice of paying attention to the present moment, indicating a state of awareness and focused observation of one's experiences.[57]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) The practice of being aware of one's thoughts and actions, crucial for recognizing and letting go of negative feelings.[58]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, which aids in reducing suffering and enhancing clarity of mind.[59]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The practice of being aware and present in the moment, which is essential for understanding seeing-nature.[60]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Three are mindfulness and awareness (prajna), and assurance is fourfold, resembling the first, the tenth, the second, and the seventh power, according to the text.[61]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) "Mindfulness" and awareness are purified by relying on good companions, leading to the complete perfection of virtuous roots and the attainment of higher states of consciousness.[62] (2) Some said that was by perceived by the skandhas, some by the ayatanas, some by the dhatus, some by interdependent arising and the objects of this.[63] (3) The state of being aware and present in one's actions and thoughts, crucial for effective meditation.[64] (4) Mindfulness plays a crucial role in maintaining awareness and attention, preventing individuals from falling into wrong views and violations of their vows.[65] (5) The quality of maintaining awareness of bodily actions, speech, and mental states to uphold the samayas.[66]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The state of being aware and present in every action and thought, serving as the core practice for personal observation and understanding.[67] (2) Awareness and presence in the moment, integral to meditation and Buddhist living.[68] (3) One of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment that involves maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, and surroundings.[69] (4) The quality of being present and fully engaged in the moment, which is cultivated through practices like meditation and mindful eating.[70]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The state of being fully present and engaged in the moment, central to Buddhist practice.[71] (2) A meditative practice focusing on present-moment awareness, central to Buddhist practice.[72]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Mindfulness is a keyword associated with the topic of the conference, and it is a practice or state of being that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, and is related to the practices of Buddhism.[73]
Hindu concept of 'Mindfulness'
In Hinduism, mindfulness is central to well-being, cultivated through practices like meditation and yoga. It emphasizes present-moment awareness, helping manage stress, improve emotional control, and promote a deeper connection between mind and body.
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) A daily conduct and practice that incorporates positive relationships and self-care to promote overall health.[74] (2) A practice that has many rationales, including enhancement of core cognitive skills to support academic and social functioning.[75] (3) It is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment.[76] (4) It encompasses awareness and acceptance, with awareness being the ability to focus attention on inner processes and acceptance being the ability to observe rather than judge thoughts.[77] (5) The holistic nature of yoga includes physical activity, mindfulness, stress reduction, and behavioral changes.[78]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, which help manage stress and promote relaxation.[79] (2) Mindfulness is promoted by Shirodhara, as the therapy fosters a deeper connection between the mind and body, which is essential for individuals with ADHD.[80] (3) Mindfulness is a concept mentioned in the provided text, appearing as a component within a publication related to the subject matter being discussed.[81] (4) This is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment, a core element of yoga that is believed to improve focus and emotional control for the patients.[82] (5) Mindfulness practices lead to better sleep, greater relaxation, and more accepting approaches to illness and the illness experience in people with diabetes.[83]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) A key concept, 'mindfulness' is central to the Anapanasati meditation technique, involving being aware of the present moment.[84]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Mindfulness is considered foolishness, while unmindedness is regarded as true wisdom, and the pure essence of the mind appears to light upon the extinction of mental affections.[85]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The text stresses the importance of mindfulness while singing, suggesting that focusing on the intention and meaning behind the words is crucial for achieving the desired outcomes.[86]
The concept of Mindfulness in local and regional sources
Mindfulness, as described in the text, is a valuable mental quality within the practice of rasayana, lacking any paranormal aspects. It's a meditative technique focusing on present-moment awareness, as analyzed by Leon Hurvitz.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A meditative technique analyzed by Leon Hurvitz, emphasizing awareness and presence in the moment.[87]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is one of the assets of rasayana that Caraka mentioned and is a desirable mental quality that lacks paranormal connotation.[88]
The concept of Mindfulness in scientific sources
Mindfulness, as described in the text, is a state of focused, non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. It is a practice used for self-understanding, well-being, and emotional regulation. Mindfulness is also an effective method for addressing stress and other mental health issues.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) A mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, often used in interventions to reduce stress and burnout.[89] (2) Mindfulness involves being aware and focused on the present moment, and it is a key component of interventions like IBSR, helping teachers manage stress and improve their overall well-being.[90] (3) Mindfulness is the concept of being present in one’s immediate environment, which was referenced in relation to a sense of sanctuary private outdoor space provided.[91] (4) Mindfulness is a Buddhist practice incorporated into recent therapies, closely related to addressing the ego-attachment that is the focus of ontological addiction.[92] (5) It means the acceptance and awareness of thoughts, emotions, physical senses, and external experiences at the present time without judging and trying to control and suppress them; it is distinct from state, which describes the non-judgmental present-focused awareness experienced in any given moment.[93]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Mindfulness is a term that is translated from the word sati, which comes from the Pali language and signifies the awareness, attention, and remembrance of one's capacity to sustain focused consciousness; therefore, mindfulness is more than meditation.[94] (2) Mindfulness is awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment, and it is useful for university employees.[95] (3) It is a predictor of individual outcomes in hospital health workers, along with psychological flexibility, playing a role in stress reduction and overall well-being in demanding work environments.[96] (4) Mindfulness, subjective well-being, and social work are interconnected, suggesting that mindfulness can impact happiness.[97] (5) It exerts a robust effect regarding the enhancement of psychological well-being and the regulation of several hormones.[98]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) An example of an intervention extracted out of a tradition, contrasted with interventions embedded within a tradition, like those used by the rescue mission.[99] (2) Mindfulness, in the context of Buddhist normativity, is a practice inseparable from Buddhist ethics, aimed at alleviating psychological suffering within a moral framework at the core of Buddhist soteriology, and it is considered distinct from modern adaptations.[100] (3) Facilitates within the practitioner a greater self-awareness, improved self-regulation and an avenue for self-transcendence, and by being an instrument that enhances attention and emotion regulation, the person can find a ‘safe space’, a moment to breathe and is used to help people find happiness.[101] (4) With mindfulness, which is a process of transculturation, an attempt was made to absorb the meditative technique into the gnoseological framework of cognitive behavioral psychology, but this attempt is unsuccessful.[102] (5) Mindfulness, observable in the practice of pilgrimage, is the psychological process of bringing one's attention to the internal and external experiences occurring in the present moment, which can be developed through meditation and other training.[103]
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purposes, in the present moment, non-judgementally.[104] (2) This is a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, and a brief session can improve mood and increase salivary oxytocin.[105] (3) This refers to a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used in various interventions.[106] (4) The study observed a significant difference in mindfulness between groups, as measured by the MAAS score, indicating that aerobic exercise can increase mindfulness.[107]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, and can improve emotional regulation, resilience, and self-care.[108] (2) This is described in peer-reviewed and popular literature as an effective method for addressing common issues like stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and functional physical disorders, supported by scientific evidence, and it extends beyond healthcare into areas such as education and business.[109] (3) This is a nonpharmacological treatment the author used to address their condition.[110]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) A term used to describe the awareness of social concerns and priorities of the community one serves.[111]
From: Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics
(1) It is a component of psychological therapies emphasizing the growth of qualities, like awareness, and focus on the present moment.[112]
From: Journal of Public Health in Africa
(1) It, along with social support and meaning-focused coping, was predicted to lead to a better adjustment, showing resilience during a specific period.[113]
From: South African Journal of Psychiatry
(1) This refers to a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, and the study explores how a training course shapes mental healthcare professionals' understanding of this concept.[114] (2) This is a state of mind involving focused attention in the present moment, without judgment, used for self-understanding and wisdom, as explained within the text.[115]