HEALTH MATTERS

Be Mindful

Mindfulness is a popular concept in our culture today. Authors and social scientists have encouraged us to be more “mindful.” What is mindfulness? Is this something I can embrace as a Christian?

Mindfulness is defined as “the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something; 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.” To be mindful is to think about your place and activity in the world and surrounding situations. Mindfulness means to consider who you are, where you are, and what you are doing. Mindfulness challenges us to look deeper into ourselves and to evaluate the meaning of our actions and thoughts.

Three characteristics of mindfulness behaviors are:

• Intentionally developing an awareness of the things and situations that surround your life. • Paying attention to what is occurring in the present moment (simply observing thoughts, feelings, sensations as they arise). • Developing an attitude that is non-judgmental, curious, and kind.

Some Christians may conflict with these ideas. Matthew 6:25, 27 urges us to take no thought about simple matters and admonishes that we cannot add to our stature by thinking on earthly things.

However, Paul’s letter to the church of Philippi is aligned with the concept of mindfulness. Philippians 4:8 tells us to meditate on things that are noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy. And, by doing this, we shall find peace. The Apostle Paul tells us to pay attention to the ideas and situations that surround our lives. In essence, we should be curious and pay attention to what is happening in the current moment by observing our Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels thoughts and feelings. The Assistant Professor at Apostle Paul is telling us to be mindful. Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com