Practicing Mindfulness: An Introduction to Meditation

Investigating how the mind operates; the condition of mindlessness, which is the pervasive swirl of thoughts and judgments that separates one from the world around them; cultivating the mind in ways conducive to deep well-being.

The notion of mindfulness as it occurs in everyday life; mindfulness as a deliberate practice; the benefits of mindfulness practice; the freedom to choose how to respond to life; releasing detrimental emotions; effects on physical health.

Meditation as a tool for developing mindfulness; distinguishing the true nature of mindfulness meditation from preconceptions about it; its capacity to instill a deeper connection to reality; cultivating a wisdom based on empathy and compassion.

The interconnections of ethical behavior with the development of mindfulness and the shaping of personal character; five precepts of behavior that are conducive to the benefits of meditation practice; the principle of not harming others or oneself.

The most beneficial physical conditions for meditation; considering the time of day and the physical setting; studying the most effective sitting postures on the floor, cushions or chair; the optimum alignment of the body for mindfulness meditation.

Mindfulness meditation is based on the use of an anchor or focus of attention; learning in detail about the fundamental elements of sitting meditation; focusing attention on the breath; returning to it when the mind strays, without judgment.