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Mindfulness is such an ordinary word. Although, it doesn’t have the spiritual chachet of words like wisdom or compassion or love, it has entered the lexicon of common usage of all us millennials!

It all started with small and private meditation retreats introducing the concept and practice to an ever-increasing number of people. And now, through programs like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindfulness programs in schools, universities and business, and research in the best neuroscience labs it had gained widespread credibility and interest.

What is making mindfulness so special and powerful?

What is this the potential of the capacity of our mind to be present, to be aware of what’s happening.

Mindfulness has several meanings and functions, all of which are key to the growth of wisdom. Understanding these meanings opens up potential for its power to transform our lives.

The most common understanding of mindfulness is that of the present-moment awareness, presence of mind, wakefulness. In other words: the opposite of absentmindedness and being a zombie. Whenever we’re lost or confused about what we do, we can simply come back to the present moment experience. Do you remember those area maps with a big arrow and caption saying: ‘You are here’? Where ever you are, whatever you are doing, you can be aware of your arrow on the map, aware of simply being present. Sometimes people struggle and think they are not capable of being mindful. But when you are listening to music, our minds are open and attentive, not attempting to control what comes next, or reflecting on the notes that just past. We all have the great power to listen and be simply aware.

The more we feel our condition, the more we can expand the actions creating joy, and abandon what creates suffering and make us feel bad. And find your balance in doing and nondoing.

The more we understand our own mind, the more we understand everyone else. If we are more accepting, more peaceful, less judgmental, less selfish, the whole world is that much more loving and peaceful, that much less judgmental and selfish. How we are affects everyone around us.