While the concept may evoke images of benevolent-looking Buddhist monks sitting in meditation, the reason for the popularity of mindfulness is that research on the topic is at an all-time high. Mindfulness-based practices have been demonstrated to have a positive impact on everything from Coronary Artery Disease to Depression to Psoriasis.

So, what exactly is mindfulness? Well, it might help to first look at “mindlessness”. Have you ever driven a familiar route only to arrive at your destination with no recollection of the actual drive? Have you ever taken out your cell phone to check the time only to pull it back out a few moments later because you looked at the time, but didn’t really “see” it? Ever found yourself holding an empty chip bag with no real memory of having eaten the contents? These are examples of times when we are physically present, but mentally checked-out. We’re on auto-pilot.

Mindfulness is the exact opposite; it is making the conscious decision to remain mentally checked-in even with mundane tasks like brushing your teeth or washing dishes. In addition to being present, mindfulness asks that we refrain from judging our experience and that we maintain a measure of self-compassion no matter what arises. When we dislike our experience, we can default to complaining, self-criticism or denial. The point here is to recognize that everything is transient. Emotions, thoughts and sensations come and go like ocean waves… rising (admitted sometimes to a peak that feels overwhelming) and gone once reaching the shore. Mindfulness is observing this rising and falling with wide-open, non-judgmental awareness.

Of course, it is easier to be mindful when things are going well, but it is most needed in times of stress. Just as an athlete or musician practices the same skills over and over so they can perform when the pressure is on, mindfulness needs to be practiced. Once mindfulness is a part of your mental tool box, you can pull it out whenever you need it to help bring a sense of calm to the chaos we all deal with from time to time.

Remaining mindful can enrich already special moments and make the ordinary feel extraordinary. While mindfulness may feel like just one more thing to add to your plate, the few minutes a day you spend practicing can make you more focused, effective and efficient in other areas of your life. When creating a personal mindfulness practice, consistency is key; it’s best to aim for a few minutes each day rather than larger chunks of time a couple times a week. Find a place where you can sit comfortably upright with your back supported - your bedroom, your office, your car, an empty stairwell - with little distraction. (Remember, sound is a part of life - you don’t need complete silence).