Myths surrounding mindfulness

There are several myths surrounding mindfulness that might discourage you from practicing it. However, there are strong arguments that can counter these myths and allow you to see mindfulness from a different perspective. We will look at them here, together, to deconstruct them and give you a better understanding of its usefulness. 

“You need to meditate to practice mindfulness”

There are two forms of mindfulness one can use: formal and informal. The former suggests sitting or lying in a comfortable position to allow for a pause. The informal form suggests that you can stop at any time during your day to take a moment. It is not necessary to close your eyes to fully enjoy it, and it is possible to practice it during small daily tasks. You can practice informal mindfulness during your morning walk, while taking a shower or bath, when cooking, or while looking outside the window and noticing the weather, for instance.

 “Mindfulness is about resting or relaxing”

One of the benefits of mindfulness is to feel relaxed, but it still requires an “active” moment of concentration, trying to focus on one thing at a time that makes us feel in the present moment and experience the benefits on our body and mind. For example, if I try to have a mindful moment while drinking my coffee, it’s likely that other tasks related to my day will come to mind, and I will need to remind myself to prioritize this moment with myself by sipping my coffee multiple times to truly appreciate the moment. 

“To be mindful, you must have no thoughts”

Having thoughts remains normal, especially when playing different roles in our lives. It is normal for an action associated with one of our spheres to emerge when we position ourselves to be mindful. The goal is not to prevent thoughts but to recognize their place and return to them after our mindfulness session to address them. For example, while actively enjoying your coffee, you might wonder if your mother took her medication this morning and remind yourself to call her afterward to confirm. In the spirit of mindfulness, you will take note that it is a task you want to dedicate yourself to after your mindful coffee enjoyment, avoiding investing in scenarios it could lead you to. 

“Practicing mindfulness isolates us from others”

Mindfulness can be practiced alone or in the presence of others, allowing us to share a moment of gratitude with others. It also permits a greater “humanity,” where the basis is to be more attentive to oneself. By being in touch with oneself and one’s emotions, it allows us to be more attentive and patient towards those around us as well. In your situation as a caregiver, mindfulness can help better connect with your loved one despite difficult situations because you will also pay greater attention to the emotions the situation makes you experience. 

“Mindfulness is a religious practice”

The origin of mindfulness comes from a Buddhist  practice “aiming to develop universal qualities of attentive presence, compassion, and wisdom.” However, today, mindfulness is also used in a secular context, allowing practitioners to take from it what they wish during their session. For example, I could engage in a mindfulness session to connect with my inner emotions regarding a difficult situation in my helping relationship or a tough decision I have to make, just as I can use it to find a sense of calm within during a more hectic time in my life.