Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment with openness and less judgement.
It is widely used for stress reduction and emotional wellbeing.
Mindfulness helps people relate differently to thoughts and emotions rather than trying to eliminate them. It can be practised through meditation, movement and everyday activities.
You will learn guided practices such as breathing exercises and body awareness, often with suggested home practice between sessions.
Mindfulness is generally low risk, but if practice increases distress or dissociation, seek guidance and consider a trauma-informed approach.
Mindfulness has roots in contemplative traditions and has been adapted into secular healthcare, psychology and wellbeing programmes.
Showing 5 conditions where Mindfulness is commonly used.
| Condition | Evidence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Stress |
strong
|
Good evidence for stress reduction; consistency matters. |
|
Anxiety |
moderate
|
Useful for rumination and worry; combine with other supports as needed. |
|
Chronic pain |
moderate
|
Useful for coping/acceptance as part of a broader plan. |
|
Insomnia |
moderate
|
Helpful for switching off; support sleep hygiene too. |
|
Low mood |
moderate
|
Can support resilience; monitor symptoms and risk. |
How much should I practise?
Short, regular practice is helpful—often 5–15 minutes daily—building gradually.
Can mindfulness be done online?
Yes. Many courses and guided sessions are available remotely.
Is mindfulness suitable if I feel distressed?
Discuss with a clinician. Pacing and support can be tailored to your situation.