Clinical Terms

Mindfulness

The practice of paying attention to the present moment with openness and without judgment.

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to what is happening in the present moment—body, breath, surroundings, thoughts, and feelings—with openness and without harsh judgment. It is a skill rather than a personality trait, which means it can be built with practice. It shows up across many therapy approaches as a foundation for other work.

This glossary is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have questions about your mental health, please speak with a licensed professional.