Mindful Attitude

By: Christine Karper, Ph.D., LMHC, Cancer Support Community, Integrative Medicine Department & Kirsten Klein, UCF Clinical Psychology Graduate Student Researcher

In the last post, Mindful Attention, we learned that breathing can combat stress, but we have to have the right attitude. Finally, we need to practice mindfulness to enjoy the full benefits it may bring.

For mindfulness, it is important to keep in mind why and how you want to practice it. However, equally important is the way you approach the practice. With the right attitude, mindfulness can be a nurturing experience.

Put simply, mindfulness is intentionally paying attention with kindness – Shapiro, 201

How many of us have negative self-talk? It is not uncommon to hear the phrase “we are our own worst critic.” Mindfulness practice asks that you step away from that critical viewpoint and adopt a kinder, self-accepting, self-nurturing and compassionate attitude. There are a few key attitudes that help in practicing mindfulness.

Non-judgment: Step back from your thoughts and notice their existence impartially.

Patience: Let things unfold in their own time

Beginner’s mind: See the world with childlike wonder.

Trust: Honor your feelings.

Non-striving: Focus on being, not doing.

Acceptance: Acknowledge the truth of your life.

Letting go: Accepting things as they are

Loving Kindness Meditation

Challenge yourself to break away from the negative self talk and replace it with kindness, compassion, and curiosity. One attitudinal practice is called the loving kindness meditation. This can be done by using the Metta Prayer. The first utterance of the prayer should be towards yourself, then those closest to you, continuing until it includes all beings.

May “all beings” be happy, healthy and whole.

May they have love, warmth and affection.

May they be protected from harm, and free from fear.

May they be alive, engaged and joyful.

May “all beings” enjoy inner peace and ease.

May that peace expand into their world and throughout the entire universe.

While practicing mindfulness, keep these five words in mind: “What you practice becomes stronger” – Shauna Shapiro

Cultivating mindfulness takes time. It is challenging, but well worth it. Befriending yourself in this way is the adventure of a lifetime, and beautifully empowering. In order to live life fully, you have to be present for it. The real meditation is how you live & love your life. Try it for a few weeks – it grows on you! For an introduction to mindfulness, check out our first blog in this series.Also, check out our other mindfulness activity videos: Mindful Seeing, Grounded Breathing, and Seesaw Breath.