Fostering Mindfulness What is mindfulness? The practice of mindfulness has its roots in Buddhist meditation but has been adapted away from any religious or spiritual traditions or beliefs. Contemporary, western mindfulness, as it is taught in educational and health contexts, is a practice of being attentive, aware and present to one’s sensations and thoughts, in the moment. Mindfulness can be a formal practice such as yoga or meditation but it can also be something that you incorporate into what you already do–it is at its most basic, the practice of being fully present in the moment, no matter what the moment might consist of. Why is mindfulness important? Psychologists have been busy researching mindfulness’ benefits and there is now a body of evidence that proves just how effective it is. Here are some of the ways mindfulness can improve your life: z Reduces stress z Improves memory and concentration z Lessens emotional reactivity z Increases empathy For people living with mental health concerns like anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, as well as physical ailments including chronic pain, mindfulness can be an effective form of treatment when it is combined with professional support. In the past ten years, mindfulness has become a buzzword that you will hear in schools and universities, hospitals, workplaces and many other environments. What exactly is it and how can it benefit your day-to-day life? Let’s unpack what mindfulness is and go over some simple ways you can incorporate it into your life to achieve its benefits. The Members’ Assistance Program (MAP) is sponsored by CDSPI and provides confidential short-term counselling support, professional guidance, resources and referrals for dentists, dental office staff and immediate family members. MAP services are complimentary and accessible 24/7/365. Contact MAP at 1.844.578.4040 or visit www.cdspi.com/membersassistance-program MAP is operated by TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks), the largest Canadian-based Employee and Family Assistance provider in the country. Available services vary by region. Use of MAP services is completely confidential within the limits of the law. • Healthy Workplace Series • The following article is adapted and reprinted with permission from worklifehealth.com 32 | 2025 | Issue 3 Supporting Your Practice
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