Mindfulness - What is it exactly?

So what is mindfulness?
Mindfulness*
*according to google

/ˈmʌɪn(d)f(ʊ)lnəs/  noun

1. the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.  "their mindfulness of the wider cinematic tradition"

2. a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

More simply put, it is about paying attention to the present moment. It is a type of relaxing meditation in which you focus on being intensely aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, but without judgement.

Mindfulness as a self-care strategy for people affected by cancer is sometimes overlooked but it is a critical part of managing stress levels and overall well-being.  It helps people cope with the elevated stress levels that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.  Prioritising your own health and well-being during a cancer journey can help to manage the adverse effects of treatment and symptoms. 

Some simple self-care practices may be just looking after the basics including eating well, sleeping well, moving your body, getting outside if possible and taking regular breaks.  Finding activities that give you energy and help you to relax and re-energize all have positive benefits.

Mindfulness helps people respond rather than react to distress, to communicate better and get the support that they need. 

If you think mindfulness might be useful for you or someone you know, there are a lot of people who can help.   Anyone can come and see a trained psychologist at the Cancer Society by calling 0800 CANCER or visiting our website cancernz.org.nz.  Their service is free and it's available to anyone.

There are also a number of really useful apps including Headspace and Calm

For more information, have a look at this episode of Canopy TV, Under the Canopy - Mindfulness.