Meditation and Mindfulness. What's the DIFFERENCE?
The terms ‘meditation’ and ‘mindfulness’ are universally well-recognized but are they completely understood? Before looking at the similarities and differences, it is useful to put meditation and mindfulness in context by considering the following statement:
“Mindfulness is a quality; meditation is a practice”
Simply put, meditation employs techniques which help with managing stress, reducing feelings of anxiety, being calm and present, and many more benefits. Mindfulness describes a feeling or a state, frequently found as a result of meditating or other practices. In other words, meditation is a method which can help someone learn to live mindfully.
The two words have also been combined into a single phrase - ‘mindful meditation’ - a practice which draws on both. The 9th edition of Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, defines mindfulness meditation as:
“A technique of meditation in which distracting thoughts and feelings are not ignored but are rather acknowledged and observed nonjudgmentally as they arise to create a detachment from them and gain insight and awareness.”
Meditation
There are many different types of meditation, including:
guided meditation,
breath awareness meditation,
loving kindness meditation,
visualization meditation and
mantra-based meditation.
Meditation is an intentional practice, usually done seated. It may take a short amount of time - just a few minutes - or extend to an hour or more. It frequently begins with deep, controlled breathing and focus on a single anchor. Meditation is not about eradicating all thoughts but rather allowing thoughts to drift in and out of our minds. It helps us to acknowledge and accept thoughts about our worries and anxieties and to let these thoughts dissipate. With regular practice, meditation improves our emotional wellbeing and overall health.
In this previous blog post, we considered the benefits of meditation for mental, physical and social wellbeing in more detail.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a general awareness of the world. Being mindful is different from meditation in that it is about paying attention to whatever is taking place. It means you are continuously aware of your thoughts, feelings, surroundings and the sensations happening throughout your body.
By being more aware, without being judgmental, and accepting what’s happening, you are able to feel calmer, less anxious and able to manage your stress levels more effectively.
We are able to be mindful during our everyday activities, such as mindful walking, mindful eating or mindful conversation. This involves being present in the moment, slowing down and paying attention. Employ a mindful approach to everyday tasks such as doing the washing-up and tune into your senses. Observe two or three things you notice about your sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing as you carry out a routine activity.
Differences between Meditation and Mindfulness
The process of mindfulness is being aware in the mind and the process of meditation is transcending the mind. In other words, being mindful keeps you on the surface of the mind, whereas meditation takes you to the depths of your mind. Mindfulness thinking is watchful while thoughts during meditation are effortless.
While meditating you might lose all sense of time. However, with mindfulness your thoughts are watchful, your senses may be heightened and you may be acutely aware of the passage of time.
Ed and Deb Shapiro, authors of “The Unexpected Power of Mindfulness & Meditation”, sum up the difference between the two terms as follows:
“Mindfulness is the awareness of ‘some-thing,’ while meditation is the awareness of ‘no-thing.’”
In a hectic world, with so many demands on our time personally and professionally, setting aside time to learn techniques which have life-long benefits is essential to living a contented, fulfilled life.
Our wellness programs for corporate and individuals include teaching meditation, mindfulness and yoga - comprehensive programs with the aim of improving your physical and mental wellbeing.
Vibrant Yoga is based in Chicago and serves the Chicagoland area as well as virtually anywhere with practical tools and guidance to individual wellness for a healthier lifestyle. We offer on-site & virtual yoga, meditation & wellness workshops to individuals and companies. We envision a world where every individual, employee, and business owner has the freedom and resources to maintain vibrant health that positively impacts their mental and physical well-being.
