'Mindfulness'. Some of you reading this may have been told in one way or another in your life to be 'mindful', but what does this exactly mean? 

The textbook definition of mindfulness is as follows; '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 as a therapeutic technique'. 

Mindfulness is something that is encouraged to us globally by meditating Buddhists, since it is said, this is where the state of mindfulness derives from. However, how can we apply this peaceful philosophy into our real life? 

Being the modern day workers in the western world, a busy lifestyle often leaves us victim of stress, anxiety and worry which only contributes to a decline in our mental and physical health. Although, it is believed that practising the art of mindfulness is a hugely beneficial way of reducing these negative health effects, and can in fact make us much more happier people. 

Let's take the example of a student failing a class exam and dwelling on their less-than-expected result; they are so busy worrying and procrastinating on what could have been, instead of working towards a much better grade in the future, which only leads them to a greater chance of another badly graded exam! 

Mindfulness is a means for us to accept the things we cannot change and not excessively worry about what lies ahead. It's about appreciating and living in the moment, and making the best of the opportunities that are there for us. 

Whether you're a student, worker, parent or anyone else, mindfulness can be applied to each and all and that is the beauty of it. 

Give it a try! 

Sophia Lorraine Zenonos
The Chalfont's Community College