fact melts away the fear…
“Mindfulness”- 8 Qualities of Awareness
by meditative - June 10th, 2013.Filed under: Insights for Mindful Intelligence, Insights For Mindfulness Training.
(Derived from “A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Workbook” ~ Bob Stahl, PH.D & Elisha Goldstein, PH.D)
These eight qualities of awareness set the stage for how we observe or attend in practice- both formally and informally. They help shape our attitude and clarify our intent.
1. Nonjudging (abiding). We are impartial witnesses unto our own experiences. We are simply taking note of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations.
2. Beginner’s Mind. We are intentionally curious with each new arising experience- observing each new ‘event’ as if it were for the first time.
3. Acknowledgment. Observing and validating things simply as they are. Moment by moment, we note & recognize ‘events’ of awareness (thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations) without personalizing.
4. Nonstriving. We intentionally observe ‘events’ of awareness without grasping, aversion, or avoidance. We are simply being with whatever is arising in the moment- as it is while it is. We have nowhere else to be but here & now.
5. Equanimity. We calmly observe with composure and evenness of temper- motivated by compassion and clear intent for a deeper understanding of what is observed. With equanimity, we give rise to wisdom and insight.
6. Letting Be. We foster an attitude of acceptance and trust allowing things to arise and be as they are so that we may better know their nature. Without influence or intervention, we may create the ‘space’ necessary for responding to what is directly before us in a more appropriate and discerning manner.
7. Self-Reliance. We open up to our capacity for ‘seeing’ and ‘knowing’ for ourselves- to trust our direct experience for what may be true or untrue.
8. Self-Compassion. A heartfelt quality of self-awareness sustained with gentleness and kindness. It is this ‘non-critical’ mind that strengthens our capacity for ‘abiding’- attending with care & curiosity- even in the midst of difficult and emotionally charged ‘events’.
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