Mindfulness is a term that has gained significant popularity lately in mainstream psychology and self-help literature.  I have found, however, that many of us are confused as to the meaning of the term. Mindfulness, in its mental health context, is the practice of bringing our attention to experiences in the present moment, without judgment.  As psychologist and mindfulness teacher Tara Brach often says, we often find ourselves stuck in the “trance of constant thinking”, and many of our incessant thoughts are not helpful, either regretting past events, or worrying about future possible events.  This robs us of the joy that can be found in the present moment.  In my work with clients on mindfulness, I provide some psycho-educational tools on mindfulness and meditation techniques, including guided imagery activities in session and linkage to resources on this practice.  Many clients express feeling a discomfort in sitting with their thoughts, or believe they are “meditating incorrectly”,  and I find that the safety of the therapy environment can help clients start to lean into and explore these thought patterns free of judgment or shame.