Do you practice mindfulness? Here’s an interesting piece questioning the evidence that it is effective. Here’s how I think about it: mindfulness is an emotion-focused coping strategy (one that tries to help us escape or modify our emotions in the moment); evidence suggest these strategies can be helpful when we face a situation that cannot be changed. When we face a situation that CAN potentially be changed, then problem-focused coping strategies (ones that actively prepare to address, and address the problem) may be more effective.
On the other hand, this interesting counter piece argues that mindfulness can and should be a prelude to action.
What do you think?
This is fascinating. I pretend to practice mindfulness–as in I frequently take deep “cleansing” breaths when a situation feels stressful, and I do mindful breathing and recite my mantra when insomnia hits–but I cannot claim to be someone who meditates anymore. I am interested in the problem-focused strategies and don’t think the two need to be separated.
Thanks, Hallam! This is a great question.