Mindfulness is a mental state characterized by focused awareness on the present moment, without judgment or attachment to thoughts, feelings, or sensations. It involves intentionally directing attention to the present experience, whether it be the breath, bodily sensations, emotions, or the environment, with an attitude of openness, curiosity, and acceptance.

At its core, mindfulness involves paying attention to what is happening in the present moment with a non-reactive and non-judgmental attitude. It involves observing thoughts and feelings as they arise, without getting caught up in them or trying to change them. Instead, mindfulness encourages a compassionate and accepting stance toward one's inner experiences, allowing them to come and go without resistance.

Mindfulness practice can take many different forms, including formal meditation techniques such as mindfulness meditation or loving-kindness meditation, as well as informal practices such as mindful walking, eating, or listening. The goal of mindfulness is to cultivate a state of heightened awareness and presence in everyday life, enabling individuals to respond to life's challenges with greater clarity, equanimity, and resilience.

Research has shown that regular mindfulness practice can have numerous benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These benefits may include reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, improved concentration and focus, enhanced self-awareness and emotional regulation, and greater overall life satisfaction.

Mindfulness is rooted in ancient contemplative traditions such as Buddhism, but in recent decades, it has been adapted into secular mindfulness-based interventions and therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which are widely used in clinical settings to promote health and well-being.

Overall, mindfulness is a powerful practice that can help individuals cultivate greater presence, peace, and clarity in their lives, enabling them to live with greater intention and authenticity.

Dr. Sokol completed the MBSR training (mindfulness based stress reduction created by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn), as part of the fellowship at the University of Arizona Integrative Medicine AWCIM (Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine).