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As the world rings in the New Year, many are embracing mindfulness—a meditative practice rooted in the art of “remembering”—as their resolution. For those seeking relaxation, reduced stress, or improved quality of life, mindfulness has become a beacon of hope, backed by decades of research demonstrating its transformative benefits.
Originating as a Buddhist practice aimed at alleviating suffering, mindfulness has undergone a remarkable evolution. Over the past 40 years, it has been adapted and secularized, now flourishing in schools, workplaces, and even the military. With accessible tools like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer, mindfulness is just a tap away for millions.
Yet, amidst its mainstream popularity, mindfulness has gained a new moniker—”capitalist spirituality.” Corporations, keen to enhance worker productivity, often promote mindfulness as a tool for focus and efficiency. While these uses are valuable, they overlook mindfulness’s profound and ancient roots.
The Heart of the Practice
As explained by Vietnamese Zen master and poet Thich Nhat Hanh, mindfulness is “the heart” of Buddhist teachings. It is the practice of “keeping one’s consciousness alive to the present reality,” anchoring us in the now, where true freedom resides.
In the Pali language, the term “sati,” translated as mindfulness, is closely tied to the verb “sarati,” meaning “to remember.” This remembrance is not about lingering on the past but about recalling the importance of the present moment amidst life’s constant distractions.
In today’s “attention economy,” as scholar Jenny Odell describes it, our focus is often fragmented, with social media and digital devices pulling us away from the here and now. Mindfulness offers a counterbalance, reminding us to return home to the present, even when it feels elusive.
Remembering the Why
For those delving into mindfulness, it is essential to reconnect with its original purpose. In Buddhist traditions, mindfulness is one of the Noble Eightfold Path’s practices, a framework for overcoming suffering. While traditionally ranked seventh, Thich Nhat Hanh argues that mindfulness is foundational, underpinning every step of the path.
The ultimate aim of mindfulness is personal transformation. By fostering a deep and honest awareness of our inner lives, we can confront our suffering, uncover its roots, and work toward healing. This transformation not only eases our own pain but also enables us to engage with the world more compassionately.
Beyond Productivity
The modern adoption of mindfulness often emphasizes productivity or relaxation. However, its essence lies in something much deeper: the courage to face our suffering and to live with openhearted presence. As mindfulness practitioners explore this path, they may find not only relief from their struggles but also the capacity to contribute to reducing suffering in the world.
This New Year, mindfulness invites us to remember why we practice and to begin anew—grounded in the now, guided by the timeless wisdom of a tradition that seeks joy and liberation for all.
This article was inspired by insights shared by The Conversation.
