Mindfulness-based practices
"Perhaps the most “spiritual” thing any of us can do is simply to look through our own eyes, see with eyes of wholeness, and act with integrity and kindness."
Jon Kabat-Zinn
Mindfulness practices have their origins in Buddhist Vipassana meditation.
Despite being based on meditation techniques, they do not presuppose adherence to any religion and can be undertaken by everyone.
The goal of these practices is not transcendence or enlightenment, but the possibility of practising Mindfulness, namely the ability to pay attention to the present moment, to the here and now, in a non-judgemental way. Furthermore, Mindfulness allows us to make a detached observation of the thoughts that cause suffering, so that they can be understood and accepted, without negatively affecting our life.
What are the benefits of Mindfulness practices?
Thanks to the work of Jon Kabat-Zin and numerous scientific studies, it has been discovered that these practices can be very effective in promoting psycho-physical well-being. In fact, it has been proven that they:
- Increase the perception of well-being and concentration
- Significantly improve the ability to manage stress and tolerate anxiety.
- Strengthen the immune system
- Decrease sensitivity to pain
- Reduce blood pressure
These are however just some of the benefits derived from practicing them.
How do Mindfulness practices take place?
Various meditation techniques are used during these practices, including body scan, breath meditation, and meditation on loving kindness (Metta), walking meditation.
They are simple techniques that practice maintaining awareness on the present moment and on what happens inside and outside of us, with a curious and non-judgemental attitude. The goal is in fact to strengthen our ability to fully live the present and to look at ourselves and the world with acceptance and kindness.
In my work as a psychologist, psychotherapist and coach, my goal is to integrate these practices organically into my work with clients, with the aim of inviting them to discover and strengthen their capacity to be welcoming and respectful towards both themselves and their experiences.