Mindfulness is the practice of deliberately paying attention to our thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment. It helps us to become more aware of our inner experiences and cultivate a greater sense of well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the seven core principles that underpin this powerful practice.
1. Non-judging
Non-judging involves observing our experiences without labeling them as good or bad, right or wrong. It encourages us to be open, curious and accepting of whatever arises in the present moment. To cultivate non-judging, practice observing your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without reacting or becoming entangled in them. Over time, this will help you develop greater self-awareness and compassion for yourself and others.
2. Patience
Patience is the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of challenges or delays. It’s an essential quality for mindfulness practice, as it allows us to be present with our experiences without rushing or trying to force a particular outcome.
In mindfulness, patience is essential for cultivating a deep and meaningful connection with our inner experiences. By being patient, we can develop greater resilience and equanimity in the face of life’s ups and downs.
3. Beginner’s Mind
The beginner’s mind is an attitude of openness and curiosity, free from preconceptions and expectations. It allows us to see things with fresh eyes, even if we’ve encountered them many times before.
To embrace the beginner’s mind, practice approaching each experience as if it were your first time encountering it. This will help you cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity, allowing you to be more receptive to new insights and perspectives.
4. Trust
Trust in mindfulness refers to having confidence in our own intuition, judgment, and ability to navigate life’s challenges. It also involves trusting the process of mindfulness itself, which can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
To build trust in yourself and others, practice listening to your inner wisdom and honoring your own experiences. Cultivating trust also involves acknowledging the inherent wisdom and potential within others, which can foster deeper connections and a more compassionate outlook.
5. Non-striving
Non-striving is the principle of not constantly seeking to achieve, change, or fix things. Instead, it encourages us to be present with our experiences as they are, without trying to control or manipulate them.
To apply non-striving in everyday life, practice letting go of the need to constantly achieve or accomplish. Instead, focus on being present with your experiences and allowing them to unfold naturally, without imposing your own expectations or desires.
6. Acceptance
Acceptance is the practice of acknowledging and embracing our experiences, thoughts, and emotions without resistance or judgment. It involves recognizing the reality of the present moment and cultivating a willingness to be with whatever arises.
The power of acceptance lies in its ability to free us from the endless cycle of craving and aversion. By embracing our experiences as they are, we can develop greater equanimity and resilience, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and ease.
7. Letting Go
Letting go is the process of releasing our attachment to thoughts, emotions, and experiences that no longer serve us. It helps us to cultivate a sense of freedom and spaciousness in our lives, allowing us to be more present and engaged with the world around us.
There are several techniques for letting go, including mindful breathing, meditation, and self-compassion practices. Experiment with different methods to find the one that resonates with you and supports your mindfulness practice.
The seven principles of mindfulness provide a powerful framework for cultivating greater self-awareness, well-being and resilience. If you apply these principles to your daily life as LotusBuddhas members do, you can develop a deeper connection with your inner experiences and navigate life’s challenges with greater wisdom and mindfulness.
