What is Mindfulness
What Is Mindfulness?
A Guide from the Mindfulness Teachers Association (MTA)
Mindfulness is a practice, a skill, and a way of being. At its core, mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and kindness. It helps us become more aware of our thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings — enabling us to respond wisely, rather than react automatically.
Whether you’re seeking support with stress, anxiety, or pain, or simply wanting to feel more connected and present in your life, mindfulness has something to offer.
Where Does Mindfulness Come From?
Mindfulness has deep roots in Buddhist contemplative traditions, dating back over 2,500 years. The word ‘mindfulness’ is derived from the Pali word sati, which implies presence of mind, awareness, and attention.
In the late 20th century, mindfulness was introduced into Western healthcare by Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Since then, it has become widely integrated into therapeutic, educational, and workplace settings.
▶️ Learn more from the Oxford Mindfulness Foundation
How Can You Practise Mindfulness?
There are many ways to practise mindfulness, including:
- Formal meditation (e.g. body scan, breath awareness, mindful movement)
- Informal practice (e.g. eating, walking, or listening mindfully)
- Mindfulness-based programmes (like MBSR or MBCT – Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy)
You don’t need any special equipment or beliefs — just the willingness to slow down and pay attention.
▶️ Read: Getting Started with Mindfulness
How Can You Practise Mindfulness?
There are many ways to practise mindfulness, including:
- Formal meditation (e.g. body scan, breath awareness, mindful movement)
- Informal practice (e.g. eating, walking, or listening mindfully)
- Mindfulness-based programmes (like MBSR or MBCT – Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy)
You don’t need any special equipment or beliefs — just the willingness to slow down and pay attention.
▶️ Read: Getting Started with Mindfulness
Why Practise With a Trained Teacher?
Mindfulness is simple, but not always easy. A trained, experienced teacher offers:
- A safe, supportive learning environment
- Guided inquiry and reflection
- Personalised feedback and encouragement
- Ethical, trauma-sensitive teaching
At the Mindfulness Teachers Association (MTA), we maintain the UK’s largest register of accredited mindfulness teachers, each committed to upholding our ethical standards and best practice guidelines.
Where Can I Find a Mindfulness Teacher?
You can explore our MTA Teacher Register to find a qualified mindfulness teacher near you or online. All MTA members are fully trained and adhere to professional standards.
Can I Learn Mindfulness Online?
Yes, absolutely. Many accredited MTA teachers offer live online mindfulness courses via Zoom or other platforms. Remote learning makes mindfulness accessible from the comfort of your own space, while still benefiting from group connection and professional guidance.
Look for teachers who provide interactive, real-time sessions rather than pre-recorded content — the relationship and feedback are key.
Is a Mindfulness-Based Programme?
Mindfulness-Based Programmes (MBPs) are structured courses that integrate mindfulness meditation with modern psychology. Examples include:
MBSR – Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
MBCT – Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Mindfulness Now – an accessible, trauma-informed MBP combining elements of MBSR and MBCT
These programmes usually run for 8 weeks, include group practice, home assignments, and opportunities to explore personal experience.
▶️ Read: What Is an MBP?
What Is the Mindfulness Now Programme?
Mindfulness Now is a leading UK mindfulness-based programme, accredited by the MTA and recommended by mental health professionals. It’s unique in combining traditional mindfulness practices with CBT, compassion-focused therapy, and positive psychology.
Mindfulness Now is also involved in academic research, in collaboration with University of Lincoln, to improve understanding and outcomes of mindfulness for well-being.
Why Learn Mindfulness in a Group?
Group learning offers:
A sense of shared experience and connection
Diverse perspectives and insights
Greater motivation and accountability
Reduced feelings of isolation
Research shows that group mindfulness programmes improve mental health, resilience, and emotional regulation, even more than solo practice.
▶️ Read: Benefits of Group Mindfulness
Why Is Practice Key? The Science of Neuroplasticity
Mindfulness is like a mental muscle — it grows stronger with consistent use. Regular practice rewires the brain, strengthening areas related to attention, emotional regulation, and compassion.
This is thanks to neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to change and adapt. Studies have shown structural and functional brain changes after just 8 weeks of mindfulness practice.
▶️ Read: How Mindfulness Changes Your Brain
▶️ Research: Harvard Study on Mindfulness and Brain Structure
How Do I Get Started?
Here’s how to begin your mindfulness journey:
Find a qualified teacher through the MTA Register
Join a recognised programme like Mindfulness Now, MBSR, or MBCT
Start a daily practice — even 10 minutes a day can make a difference
Use trusted resources (see below)
Be kind to yourself — mindfulness is a lifelong learning process
Recommended Resources
Research and Evidence
Kuyken et al. (2015). Effectiveness of MBCT in preventing relapse in depression – The Lancet
Gotink et al. (2015). Mindfulness and Health Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis – PLoS ONE
Hölzel et al. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain grey matter density – Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging
Creswell (2017). Mindfulness Interventions – Annual Review of Psychology
Ready to Take the First Step?
✅ Visit our MTA Register to connect with an accredited mindfulness teacher.
✅ Learn about our Best Practice Guidelines for teachers.
✅ Explore accredited training routes such as the Mindfulness Now Teacher Training.
get in Touch
For any questions please feel free to call 0121 444 1110 or contact us via the form below. We look forward to hearing from you!