Mindfulness. Is there an app for that?

TL:DR – The idea of an app for mindfulness is inherently contradictory, but they may have some use if used mindfully… The notion of mindfulness is often discussed in light of an apparently epidemic of mental health crises, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, and other problems. It is considered a state of being where one is fully present in the moment and aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. The aim of mindfulness is not to exclude external stimuli nor to ignore one’s memories and preclude predictions of the future, but rather to live in the moment, to try to feel satisfied in the moment and to ultimately achieve a comfortable mental state. The pros and cons of mindfulness apps Apparently, there are mobile phone apps that purport to help with mindfulness. The problem with that notion is that mindfulness requires a deep level of self awareness and attention that cannot be achieved through an app or device. In fact, using an app could be a distraction and prevent a person from being fully immersed in the present moment. Bells and whistles, bleeps and beeps are not conducive to mindfulness, it must be said. The practice of mindfulness involves developing a non-judgemental attitude towards one’s experiences as well as non-attachment from cyclic thoughts and other distractions. It underpins many forms of philosophy and what we might refer to as spiritual practice, such as meditation, yoga, and even some religions including ...
Source: David Bradley Sciencebase - Songs, Snaps, Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Health and Medicine Psychology Source Type: blogs