Solution – Mindfulness

Mindfulness – An Overview

In 12 step programs they have what is referred to as the Serenity Prayer. I goes something like this:

“May I have the SERENITY to accept the things I cannot change; the COURAGE to change the things I can; and the WISDOM to know the difference.”

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION is a practice that specifically works on cultivating these qualities of SERENITY (calm, relaxation, contentment), COURAGE (overcoming stress associated with fear) and WISDOM (that comes with greater clarity of perception).

Rather than thinking of these qualities as traits, we should think of them as skills – not unlike motor skills like riding a bicycle, or dancing. A skill is something that anyone can learn and develop through systematic practice. You really can’t master a skill very well by reading about it in a book. Yes, it helps to get some instruction on what to do. However, to master the skill, you have to actually do it. You have to practice it. And, the more you practice, the better you get. It’s the exactly the same with the skills of MINDFULNESS.